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GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA 



THE USE OF SCHOOLS 

AND PRIVATE FAMILIES. 

SECOND EDITION, 
WITH CORRECTIONS AND ADDITIONS. 

BY 

REBECCA EATON. 

Take fast hold of Instruction. — Solomon. 




EDWARD C, BIDDLE, 23 MINOR STREET. 
1837, 



FtS3 



Entered according to the Act of Congress, in tbe year 1637, by Edward 
C. BiDDLE, in the Office of the Clerk of the District Court of the Eastern 
District of Pennsylvania. 



Philadelphia: 

T. K. & P. G. Collins, Printers. 

No. 1 Lodge Alley. 



PREFACE 



SECOND EDITION. 



In presenting the second edition of this Geography 
to the public, the compiler would beg leave to say, that 
some parts of the work have been considerably en- 
larged, and that untiring efforts have been made to 
render it correct. The county of Philadelphia has 
been examined by gentlemen of high literary attain- 
ments, who are well acquainted with this portion of 
the state. Sheets of most of the other counties have 
been sent to prominent individuals living in those 
counties; some of whom have made corrections, others 
important additions. To render the work still more 
attractive to the juvenile reader, a number of inte- 
resting and useful anecdotes have been added. Hav- 
ing thus availed herself of every means in her power 
for improving the work, and having received recom- 
mendations from various individuals filling the highest 
departments in our literary institutions, the author now 
offers it to the public with the fondly encouraging hope,. 



VI PREFACE. 

that it may be extensively useful to the rising genera- 
tion. She would also embrace the present opportuni- 
ty to acknowledge her high obligation to those gentle- 
men in the city, and in other parts of the state, who 
have so kindly and readily aided her' in the humble 
effort to advance the cause of education. 



CONTENTS, 



PAGE 

I. Introduction, - - - - -5 

II. Name, Extent, Boundaries, and Mountains, - 7 

III. Mountains Continued, - - - - 8 

JV. Rivers, ...... 14 

V. Geology, - - - - - - 25 

Anthracite Coal, - - - - - 26 

Bituminous Coal, - - - - - 28 

Iron, - - - - - .29 

Salt Springs and Salt Works, - - - 29 

Soil, - - - - . . 30 

Forest and Fruit Trees, - - - - 32 

Agricultural Productions, - - - - 33 

VI. Climate, - - - - - - 35 

VII. Internal Improvements, - - - - 37 

State Canals and Railroads, - - - - 37 

Canals constructed by privatf! Companies, - - 39 

Railroads, - . - . . , . - 40 

Bridges, .-.-.. 41 

VlII. Government, - - - - - 43 

IX. Revenue, - - - - - - 44 

X. Maintenance of the Poor, - - - - 44 

XI. Penitentiary System, - - - - 45 

XII- Commerce AND Manufactures, - - - 49 

XIII. Education, ----- - 50 

XIV. Population, ------ 53 

Miscellaneous Questions, No. 1, - - - 55 

XV. Divisions, - - - - - - 57 

XVI. Eastern Pennsylvania, - ? - - 57 

Philadelphia County, - - - - 58 

Bucks, - • - - - - 92 

Chester, ....-- 95 

Lancaster, - - ^ - - -100 

Delaware, .... - 108 

Montgomery,- - - - - - 110 

Berks, - - - - ^ .113 

Lebanon, ...... 117 

Dauphin, - - - - • - 118 



Vlll 



CONTENTS. 



Schuylkill, 
Lehig-h, 
Northampton, 
Luzerne, 
Northumberland, 
Columbia, 
Pike, 
Wayne, 
Susquehanna, - 
Monroe, 
Bradford, 

Miscellaneous Questions, No. ! 
XVII. Central Pennsylvania, 
York County, 
Adams, 
Cumberland, 
Franklin, 
Bedford, 
Somerset, 
Cambria, 
Huntingdon, - 
Perry, 
Juniata, 
Mifflin, 
Union, 
Centre, 
Clearfield, 
Lycoming, 
Tioga, 
Potter, 
M'Kean, 

Miscellaneous Questions, No. 
XVIII. Western Pennsylvania, 
Greene County, 
Fayette, 
Westmoreland, 
Washington, 
Allegheny, 
Beaver, 

Butler, - . 

Armstrong, 
Indiana, 
Jefferson, 
Venango, 
Mercer, 
Crawford, 
Warren, 
Erie, 

Miscellaneous Questions, No. - 
Temperance, 
Early History, 



t>A6S 

123 
127 
130 
140 
148 
150 
151 
152 
154 
158 
159 
160 
163 
164 
168 
170 
175 
181 
191 
192 
194 
198 
199 
200 
202 
204 
206 
206 
210 
211 
214 
216 
218 
218 
220 
227 
228 
234 
249 
254 
256 
258 
261 
262 
263 
265 
268 
270 
273 
275 
279 



GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 



LETTER I. 
INTRODUCTION. 



My DEAR Pupils: 

Feeling deeply interested in yonr improvement, I have 
much wished to direct your attention to the study of your 
own state, and have recently taken three extensive tours in 
the interior; the object of which was, to collect facts con- 
ducive to your improvement. Considerable information was 
obtained, which I found interesting, and hope it may prove 
useful, not only to you, but to the youth of the state gene- 
rally. Encouraged by the advice of teachers, and other judi- 
cious friends, I have been induced to compile a Geography 
of Pennsylvania. This I design to address to you in a 
series of letters. An acquaintance with your own state will 
add to your fund of practical knowledge, conduce to make 
you more intelligent, more interesting and useful members 
of society, to rouse and expand your feelings of benevolence, 
and may induce you, at some future period, to form plans 
for the improvement of those, whom you ought especially 
to consider as brethren. 

Pennsylvania is a noble state, distinguished for extent of 
territory, for the grandeur of its mountains and rivers, and 
for a great deal of interesting scenery. It is the greatest 
manufacturing state in the Union ; is rich in mineral and 
vegetable productions, and particularly abounds in lime- 
stone, iron, salt, and coal. These afford great facilities for 
manufacturing establishments. It has an abundance of rock 
and timber for building; and, in many places, abounds in 
that beautiful and useful material, white marble. As an 
agricultural state, Pennsylvania is preeminently distinguish- 
2 



b GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

ed ; and its system of internal improvements is truly mag- 
nificent. It enjoys a climate, at once healthy and agree- 
able, abounds in fossils, has fine turnpikes, excellent rail- 
roads, canals and bridges, numerous important literary and 
benevolent institutions, and may be regarded as one of the 
most favoured states in the Union. With such a state, 
and this your own, you ought, surely, to be made acquaint- 
ed. But you m~ust not suppose, that I intend to detail to 
you all, which this noble slate affords, that is interesting and 
useful. That I cannot do for two reasons. My research 
has not been sufficiently extensive for this; and if it had 
been, it would occupy more time, than the limits of this 
work would allow. 

Thus much and much more, might be said, in favour 
of Pennsylvania. Biit we must not conceal, that there is 
a counterpart to all this. There is another tale to be 
told ; a tale, that should thrill through every heart, and 
cause every bosom to heave with anguish. It relates to 
the intellectual and moral degradation of many of the lower 
class of people. A great number of them can neither 
read nor write. Oh, tell it not to the Heathen, publish it 
not in the islands of the Pacific; let not the pagan daugh- 
ters rejoice, let them not rejoice, that in this highly favoured 
nation, in this privileged state, so many of the population 
are unable to read or write. 

I wish all the intelligent youth of our state to be made 
acquainted with this fact. I wish them to know it, be- 
cause, I trust, they have many feelings of kindness, com- 
passion and benevolence ; because, by knowing it, they 
may be induced to feel it, and feeling it, their energies may 
be exerted in favour of a reformation. True, our legisla- 
ture has done much; but we wish the work to go on with a 
glorious tide of success; we wish the united energies of all 
combined in making Pennsylvania preeminently distin- 
guished for literary and moral culture. 

What advantages may result from an acquaintance with your own 
state ? 

What are the natural features, which distinguish Pennsylvania ? 

In what respect is Pennsylvania the first state in the Union ? 

What is said of Pennsylvania as an agricultural state ? 

Of her system of internal improvements? 

How does Pennsylvania compare with other states in the Union ? 



MOUNTAINS. 



What fact is stated relative to the intellectual and moral degrada- 
tion of many of the lower class of people ? 

Why is it desirable, that the intelligent youth of our state should 
be acquainted with this fact ? 



BETTER II. 

The meaning of Pennsylvania is Penn's Woods. It is* 
derived from the surname of William Penn, and Sylva, 
Woods. Few, if any regions of equal extent, ever bore, 
in a state of nature, a more dense forest. Pennsylvania 
was an expanse of woods in the strictest sense of the 
word. 

You perceive from the map, that Pennsylvania is a very 
large state. It extends from Lat, 39° 43' to 42'=' 16' North, 
and from 2'' 20' East, to 3® 36' West from Washington. 
It is bounded North, by New York and Lake Erie; East, 
by Delaware river, which separates it from New York and 
New Jersey; South, by Delaware, Maryland and Virginia; 
West, by Virginia and Ohio. Its greatest length is 315 
miles; greatest breadth 176; general breadth 153, containing 
about 46,000 square miles. 

" The mountains of Pennsylvania obtrude themselves at 
the first glance, on the map, as the most prominent of its 
natural features, 

^' The structure and position of its mountains have given 
to Pennsylvania, an aspect peculiar to itself. The Appala- 
chian system, in the United States, generally extends in a 
direction, deviating, not very essentially, from southwest 
to northeast; but in Pennsylvania, the whole system is in- 
flected from that course, and passes the stale in a serpentine 
direction. Towards the south boundary, the mountains lie 
about north-northeast, gradually inclining more easterly, 
as they penetrate northward, and, in the central counties, 
many of the chains lie nearly east and west; but as they 
extend toward the north, they again imperceptibly incline 
to the northeast, and enter New York and New Jersey, 
nearly in that direction. 

" The various ranges of these mountains are known by 
different names. The following are some of the principal •. 
the South Mountain, or Blue Ridge, theKiitatinny,or Cove 
Mountain, Sideling Hill, Allegheny, Laurel Hill and Chest- 
nut Ridge. 



8 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

" Between the Kittatinny Mountain and the north branch 
of the Susquehanna river, the intermediate country is, in a 
great part, composed of high rugged mountains, and narrow, 
deep and precipitous valleys. This is the most sterile, and 
least improvable part of Pennsylvania, but it is the region, 
producing the most extensive masses of anthracite coal, 
known on the globe. 

*' The chain, which rises on both banks of the Susque- 
hanna river in Luzerne, is among the most interesting fea- 
tures, not only in the United States, but in the world. 
The chain, which is called the Allegheny, forms, in the 
southern part of Pennsylvania, a ridge between the Atlan- 
tic slope and the valley of the Ohio. Allegheny Mountain 
has, no doubt, from this circumstance, received its preemi- 
nence among the mountain chains of Pennsylvania, Mary- 
land, and Virginia." 

The area, covered by the bases of the mountains, has 
been estimated, by Mr. Darby, at 6,750 square miles, or 
nearly one-seventh of the superficies of the state. 

What is the meaning of Pennsylvania? 
Between what degrees of latitude and longitude does it lie ? 
What are the boundaries ? 

What are the most prominent natural features of Pennpylvania? 
In what direction do the mountains pass through the state? Name 
the six principal ranges ? 

What is the most sterile and least improvable part of Pennsylvania? 
What mineral does this part produce in great abundance ? 
Between what waters does the Allegheny Mountain form a ridge? 
What proportion of Pennsylvania is covered with mountains ? 



LETTER in. 

MOUNTAINS CONTINUED. 

Now, my dear pupils, I must endeavour to give you a 
faint description of some of the scenery, which particularly 
attracted my attention, as I passed the mountainous regions. 
In travelling from Chambersburg to Pittsburg, we soon 
found ourselves in the region of mountains. The scenery 
was truly grand. Height above height, and cliff above cliff, 
these rocky eminences rear their blue peaks to the clouds, 
and spread around in majestic grandeur. 



MOUNTAINS. 9 

The first mountain we passed, you perceive from the 
map, m\ist have been the Tuscarora or Cove Mountain. 
*' Emerging from the wood, as we reach the top, there sud- 
denly bursts upon our view a widely extended prospect of 
fertile valleys, larm houses and smiling villages, giving life 
to the scene." We hardly knew which to admire most, the 
elevated grandeur of the mountains, or the splendid beauties 
of the vale beneath. 

In a very warm day, near the middle of July, we reached 
Bedford, having travelled over mountains and through clouds 
of dust ; yet the pleasure we enjoyed was almost indescrib- 
able. The scenery was so exceedingly varied and inter- 
esting, that we had one continued feast; we could not 
sufficiendy admire its beauties. 

Among the numerous objects which presented themselves 
to view, were a great variety of flowers, forest and fruit 
trees, beautiful birds, clear streams of water, bridges, val- 
leys, fountain pumps, steep precipices, deep ravines, bold 
towering eminences, sidelong hills, with the shadows length- 
ening and receding, and 

" Shade unperceived, so softening into shade. 
And all so forming an harmonious whole. 
That, as they still succeed, they ravish still." 

The mountains and hills seemed thrown together in beau- 
tiful disorder. The rapid whirling of the stage gave them 
the appearance of continued motion ; and they seemed to 
say to us, "He maketh the mountains skip like rams, and the 
little hills like lambs." 

One of the streams we passed, near Bedford, is called 
Bloody run. It was so named, from an incident which 
occurred relative to some of the first settlers. Returning 
from business one day, they commenced washing in this 
stream, and while thus engaged some Indians came up, and 
murdered them all. 

Fountain pumps abound in this region. A pump of this 
kind may be had, wherever a spring is found, whose reser- 
voir is higher than the outlet. In these springs, large pipes 
are placed with a horizontal tube near the top, whence 
issues an everflowing stream. 

July 16th, we crossed the Allegheny Mountain, Laurel 
Ridge, and Chestnut Ridge. The ride did not seem so 
dangerous as we had anticipated ; yet it was very fatiguing. 

2* _ 



10 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

The weather was very warm, and the roads rough. Again 
we were encircled with mountains, and, occasionally, could 
see nothing but these immense masses in every varied form 
and direction. Sometimes there were openings, when a 
rich and enchanting landscape was presented to our de- 
lighted view. We could realise, that we were above the 
fields, above the surrounding mountains, and above the 
clouds. Sometimes we passed directly through the clouds, 
at other times we could see them settling in the valleys, or 
flitting in the sunbeams. We could not, like a traveller in 
South Amicrica, who had ascended the Andes, feel that we 
were on the top of the world, but we could, with propriety, 
consider ourselves on the top of Pennsylvania. 

The Tuscarora Mountain, Sideling Hill, Allegheny Moun- 
tain, and Laurel Hill, are all from eight to ten miles over. 
Sometimes, when travelling over these m.ountains, fatal ac- 
cidents occur. In 1835, when passing the Allegheny 
Mountains, an event of ihis kind took place. The stage 
driver falling asleep, and the horses getting out of the road, 
the stage and passengers went down a precipitous bank of a 
great many feet. The passengers were not dangerously inju- 
red, but badly bruised. Laurel Hill we found fragrant with 
thousands of that beautiful plant, called the mountain laurel. 

We saw a great number of little cottages, in the moun- 
tains, surrounded by woods. How their occupants sub- 
sisted, we could not conjecture ; but have since learned, that 
they obtain support by the manufacture of iron. 

July 17th, we rode from Greensburg to Pittsburg, thirty- 
eight miles. The country is broken and eminently hilly. 
Though not mountainous, yet, as the hills are, many of 
them, cleared and cultivated, they appear larger than the 
mountains themselves. As we were rolled from hill to hill, 
ascending, and then again descending these massy eminen- 
ces, we had an unobstructed view of their magnitude, and 
of the beauties of cultivated nature. The prospect was 
elevating and truly ennobling to the mind. This truth, "God 
is great," seemed to bear upon the mind, as if responded 
from a thousand tongues. 

Enormous hills, frightful precipices, deep glens, impene- 
trable forests, cultivated fields, small villages, pleasant coun- 
try seats, &c., alternately presented themselves to our view. 
The mountains receding from view, and softening into shade, 
, resembled the distant ocean. 



MOUNTAINS. 11 

As soon as we pass the Allegheny Mountain, we come to 
what are called the western waters. The streams, instead 
of flowing east, flow west and southwest, and mingle with 
the waters of the great valley. 

We passed within a mile of the field, celebrated for the 
defeat of Gen. Braddock, twelve miles from Pittsburg. His 
self-conceit, obstinacy, and contempt for the provincial 
troops, caused, not only his own death, but the loss of a 
gallant army, and the exposure of the western frontiers to 
a savage foe. There is now a flourishing school in that 
place, under the superintendence of Mrs. Oliver, called the 
Braddock Field School. 

In the progress of our journey home, we took what is 
called the upper route from Meadville to Philadelphia. If 
you wish to know what the appearance is, as we pass along 
from Meadville to the mountains, you must picture to your- 
selves a very delightful country, for a few miles, but a poor 
road, with long tedious hills, rocky, and extremely tiresome 
to the traveller; some villages; a few good houses and 
farms and numerous log cabins, with a little spot cultivated. 
But much of the country resembles an unbroken wilderness. 
Even where the land is cleared and cultivated, the numer- 
ous stumps, and dead straggling trees evince, plainly, that 
it is a new country. But even the wilderness is not with- 
out its varieties, as meandering streams, numerous beautiful 
flowers, glebe lands, the richly variegated autumnal hues, 
and occasionally, a bold elevation, from which we could see 
the distant hills, and thickly embowering woods. Very 
singularly looking hogs would sometimes give variety to the 
scene. They were very lean, and had long bristles. 

We were told, that the first night after leaving Meadville, 
we must lodge in the wilderness. Lodge in the wilderness! 
we thought ; how can we do that ? We soon learned, how- 
ever, that when the road was first made, the country, through 
which it passed, was a wilderness ; and although there are 
now some settlements, it continues to bear that name. But 
the fact is, that it is a very lonesome place, and might, 
with much propriety, be still called a wilderness. 

You will perceive, from the map, that by continuing the 
upper route, we recroSsed the Allegheny in Centre county. 
On that day, leaving Franklin, the seat of justice in Venan- 
go county, we commenced our journey at a very early hour. 
The morning was truly delightful. The moon shone beau- 



12 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

tifully ; a number of the constellations were visible ; the 
northern Bear, Pleiades, Orion, and the never failing polar 
star were in full view ; and Jupiter's soft light seemecl like 
the harbinger of day. But soon the moon faded, the stars 
faded, Jupiter withdrew his shining, the sun began to gild 
the eastera mountains, and spread its enlivening rays over 
the dewy earth. 

Before I was aware of it, we had ascended a very high 
eminence. When I first saw the horrible precipice, on 
the verge of which I was rapidly whirled, for a moment, 
I was almost breathless. We could easily look down the 
steep descent, distinctly see the long, deep, and distant vale 
below, and through the numerous trees, see another moun- 
tain rise in awful grandeur. These very tall trees conduce 
much to the grandeur and amazement which overspread the 
mind. It seemed as though they might be designed to 
arrest the thunderbolts, or stay the swift arrows of light- 
ning. They reaf their aspiring tops to the distance of from 
150, to 170 or 180 feet. 

In the afternoon of the same day we commenced the 
ascent of the Allegheny. After a gradual rise of four or 
five miles, we reached the summit. That I might be able 
to overlook the tops of the trees, I left the coach, and ven-. 
tured to take my seat with the driver. For several miles I 
rode in this manner, and could see mountains and valleys, 
in every direction. Indeed I wanted numerous eyes, that I 
might, with one view, behold the grandeur and beauty that 
every where surrounded us. One mountain would rise to 
view, and then another, and still another, till finally, they 
were lost in the distant clouds. I could distinctly see 
numerous fields,Jwaving with plenty, the gap through which 
the Juniata passes, thirty miles distant, and the "half-moon 
valley" adjoining. This valley is celebrated for containing 
some most elegant farms. As we descended, the moun- 
tains and hills seemed to rise in their greatness, and remind-^ 
ed us of the power of Him, who called all these things 
into existence ; "who spake, and it was done, who com- 
manded, and it stood fast." 

The Allegheny Mountain seems to produce the laurel as 
abundantly as the Laurel Hill. A gentleman, who owns 
a large tract of country in that region, told us that he had 
sent a great deal of the laurel to England, where this beau- 
tiful and fragrant plant is highly esteemed. 



MOUNTAINS. 13. 

On the mountain is a spring, called the Rattlesnake 
Spring, in consequence of the number of rattlesnakes for- 
merly found here. It is a small spring, issues from the 
side of the mountain, runs across the road, and passes off. 
Opposite, is a small tavern, on the sign of which is de- 
picted the rattlesnake. From this spot, there is a very ex- 
tensive and beautiful prospect for upwards of 40 miles. 

There are but few inhabitants in this mountainous re- 
gion. Those who do live here, find it healthy, but very cold. 
They have frosts early and late, and consequently have but 
little fruit, and few garden vegetables. As early as the 18th 
of August, when we were there, frost was seriously appre- 
hended. The trees, on the summit of the mountain, are 
small and very much bent and broken, which is occasioned 
by the weight of the snows and ice in the winter. 

Whether we behold a natural or a moral wilderness, it is 
truly delightful to reflect, that the earth shall be filled with 
the knowledge of the Lord; that the time will come, when 
these valleys and these mountains shall be filled with in- 
habitants; when numerous villages, and churches, and 
seminaries of learning shall arise ; when the arts ?.pd sci- 
ences shall here be cultivated; and upon all shall be in- 
scribed "Holiness unto the Lord." Then shall 

" The dwellers, in the vales and on the rocks, 
Shout to each other; and the mountain tops, 
From distant mountains, catch the flying joy." 

Were I to describe to you all the interesting scenery, 
with which these mountainous regions abound, I should 
fill volumes. Already I have exceeded my proposed limits. 
Still I am not quite ready to dismiss this interesting topic. 

Just on the boundary between Cumberland county and 
Perry is a place called Sterrit's Gap, from which is a grand 
view of Cumberland valley. The appearance is like that 
of an extensive and highly cultivated garden. Besides the 
wide spreading valley waving with plenty, here may be 
seen Carlisle, Harrisburg, and other towns and villages. 

The trees on the mountains frequently take fire, and bum 
with great rapidity, much property being consumed in a 
short time. The appearance of such a fire at night, is said 
to be awfully grand. Two or three hundred people go out, 
and labour very hard to extinguish it. It is a singular fact, 
that thejr extinguish fire by fire. Having surrounded it, at 



14 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

some considerable distance, they gather up the leaves, and 
whatever they find, that is very combbistible. With these, 
they make a new fire, which takes a direction inwards. 
Soon these combustible materials are consumed, and the 
fire ceases. In the same manner, fire is extinguished in the 
prairies. This, however, is more difiicult, because the fire 
here is more rapid. 

Which is the first mountain crossed, in travelling firora Chambers- 
burg to Pittsburg? 

What prospect suddenly bursts upon our view, as we reach the top 
of this mountain? 

Mention some of the numerous objects, which present themselves 
to view, when crossing the mountains- 
Why was the stream Bloody run so called? 

Describe a fountain pump. 

Can you give some account of the journey on the 16th of July? 

What mountains can you mention, which are each from eight to 
ten miles over? 

What dwellings were seen among the mountains ? 

How do their occupants subsist ? 

In travelling from Greensburg to Pittsburg, what effect does the 
scenery produce on the mind of the beholder ? 

Wliat interesting objects present themselves ? 

What change, in the direction of the streams, is observable, as we 
pass the Allegheny Mountain ? 

Whst is here related of Gen. Braddock ? 

How is Meadville situated ? 

What is the appearance of the country, as we pass from Meadville 
to the mountains ? 

What varieties does the wilderness present? 

What do you recollect about a high eminence, here mentioned ? 

What natural objects conduce much to the grandeur and amaze- 
ment which overspread the mind ? 

What is the height of the trees at this place ? 

Mention some of the objects seen when crossing the Allegheny ? 

What plant does this mountain produce in great abundance ? 

What spring is seen on the mountain ? Why called Rattlesnake 
Spring ? 

What inconveniences are experienced by the inhabitants of this 
mountain ? 

What moral reflection is here mentioned as being very delightfU ? 

What disastrous event often takes place in the mountains ? How 
are the fires in the mountains extinguished ? 

— .>»»e®e ««" - ' 

LETTER IV. 
RIVERS. 
Many of you, my dear pupils, have studied philosophy, 



RIVERS. 15 

and understand something about the formation of rivers. 
But as some of you are unacquainted vi^ith this subject, 
I vv^ill endeavour to tell you a little about the manner in 
which rivers are formed. 

When it rains, the water descends the hills and moun- 
tains; various particles unite, and form little streams. If 
these streams meet a hollow, they run into it, and form a 
pond or lake. When the hollow is full, a stream flows out, 
which unites with other streams, then again with others, 
and thus it goes on accumulating. In its progress down- 
wards, it becomes wider and deeper, till finally a river is 
formed, which rolls its mighty waters into the ocean. 

This state is drained principally by the Delaware river, 
Susquehanna, Ohio, and a part of Lake Erie. 

" A very prominent, and interesting subject in physical 
geography, is the course of the rivers in Pennsylvania. It 
may be assumed as a fact, that they either run parallel with 
the mountains, winding their way through the valleys, or 
taking a course at right angles with the mountains, they 
break through successive mountain chains. In the course 
of the Delaware and Susquehanna, there is a striking con- 
formity to that of the mountains. 

The Delaware rises by two branches in the Catskill 
Mountains. Reaching within about 10 miles of the north- 
east corner of Pennsylvania, these streams unite, and main- 
tain a southeast course, fifty miles to the northern extre- 
mity of New-Jersey. Having touched the foot of the Blue 
Mountain, it winds along in a southwest direction, forming 
the picturesque scenery of the Delaware Water Gap, then 
turns south, breaks through that mountain, passes the fine 
valley below, and near Easton, forms another mountain pass. 
A few miles below, it passes the South Mountain, and 
meandering through a succession of hills and valleys, in a 
southeast direction, it forms another great bend below 
Trenton, and meets the tide. Seven miles below Philadel- 
phia, this now widening stream, receives the Schuylkill. 
Forming its last great bend below New Castle, it enters 
Delaware Bay in a southeast direction. 

The length of the Delaware is three hundred and ten 
miles; nearly one half being tide water. Though this 
noble river forms two mountain passes, and rolls the volume 
of its waters over numerous rapids, yet no cataract impedes 



16 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

the navigation, from its leaving the State of New York, 
until its entrance into the Atlantic ocean. It is navigable 
for 74 gun ships to Philadelphia, 120 miles; for sloops to 
Trenton, 30 miles, and for boats, 100 miles farther. 

It is worthy of remark, that the three great rivers, Dela- 
ware, Susquehanna, and Potomac, receive nearly all their 
tributaries from the west. Of these, the Delaware has but 
three, of any considerable magnitude, the Lehigh, Schuyl- 
kill, and Lackawaxen. 

The Schuylkill and Lehigh have become rivers of great 
importance. This has arisen, principally, from the mine- 
ral treasures found near their sources, in the mountains. 
The Lehigh is a rapid little sparkling river, that seems 
always on a frolic. It rises, by numerous precipitous 
branches, in Northampton, Pike, Wayne, and Luzerne 
counties. Uniting below Stoddartsville, and forming a 
small, but rapid river current, descending first to the south- 
west, it gradually turns south and southeast, passes Mauch 
Chunk village, and forming several mountain passes, finally 
breaks through the Kiltatinny, and continuing a southeast 
direction, meets the Blue Ridge at AUentown. Here it 
turns to the northeast, and unites with the Delaware at 
Easton. The Lehigh is, eminently, a mountain torrent. 
The descent, from its source to its entrance into the Dela- 
ware, is very remarkable, exceeding, in this respect, that of 
any other river, of the same length, in the United States. 
In the distance of 100 miles, it falls 1700 feet, and what 
may be considered very peculiar, is, that there is no consi- 
derable cataract in all its course. The scenery on this river 
is peculiarly interesting, calculated to arrest the attention, 
and fill the admiring stranger with wonder and amazement. 
The wild and romantic aspect, the terrific precipices, the 
deep glens, the towering rugged mountains, the rapidly de* 
scending current, all combine to form a bold and picturesque 
landscape. In many places, the mountains rise abruptly 
from the water's edge. The traveller perceives on one side 
a perpendicular ascent, on the other a precipitous bank, 
along which extends the river and canal. Below the Water 
Gap, the features of nature are less strongly marked; but 
still its character is varied and interesting, afl!brding a rich 
succession of elegant landscape. 

The Lehigh is now rendered navigable for some distance 



RIVERS. 17 

above Mauch Chunk. The discovery of anthracite coal, 
in the vicinity, led to the improvement of the river naviga- 
tion. 

The Schuylkill, formed by two branches, rises in Schuyl- 
kill county. Seven miles below Orwigsburg, these branches 
unite, and pass through the Kittatinny Mountain. Below 
this mountain, it runs south, until it forms a second moun- 
tain-pass through the Blue Ridge at Reading. Then it takes 
a southeast direction, passes another mountain, and dis- 
charges its waters into the Delaware, below Philadelphia. 

The length of the Schuylkill is 136 miles. A strong re- 
semblance is perceived between this river and the Lehigh; 
though the scenery around the former is less rugged, pre- 
cipitous, and bold, than that which borders the latter stream. 
They are both mountain torrents, flowing from the same 
mountain valleys, having a similar soil, and being equally 
distinguished for the distribution of anthracite coal. 

The Schuylkill is now navigable to the coal mines, ten 
miles above Orwigsburg. By the Union Canal, a connec- 
tion is completed between the Schuylkiil and Susquehanna. 
This canal passes through the Swatara and Tulpehocken 
valleys. 

The freshets on these rivers are sometimes very destruc- 
tive. The following is a short account of a Schuylkill 
freshet, which occurred in 1834. " It is said the rise was 
greater than was known for many years. Several houses 
were inundated at the Falls, and articles of various descrip- 
tion, such as tables, chairs, benches, tubs, etc., were car- 
ried off. A barn, swept down the neighbouring hills, was 
left standing high and dry, in the middle of the turnpike 
road, between the Falls and Manayunk. The dam, across 
the Schuylkill in Plymouth township, together with the 
canal and locks at the place, was injured to such a degree 
as to close the navigation for some time. The toll house, 
at the locks, was wholly carried down the stream; but again 
brought to shore, by great exertions, at Spring Mill. 

" A frame building, near the bridge on the turnpike, in 
the lower section of the borough of Norristown, floated 
against the bridge, and the larger portion of it was almost 
instantly swept through the arch, and floated in fragments, 
down the stream. A number of persons thought, that by 
tearing the remaining portions of the building to pieces as 
fast as possible, thereby making a free passage for the water, 
3 



18 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

the bridge might be saved, as a small part of it only, had 
given way, and were actively engaged to effect this purpose 
when the remaining portion of the bridge fell, and a re- 
spectable citizen, who was on the bridge at the time, was 
precipitated into the current, and immediately disappeared, 
amidst the stones and earth which closed upon him. He 
shortly made his appearance, a few yards below, having 
clung to a portion of the building, and was carried rapidly 
down the stream, where he was fortunately rescued by one 
of the citizens. He was nearly exhausted, and severely 
bruised by the fallmg stones at the bridge."* 

Susquehanna. — This mighty river has its source in New 
York, by two great branches. Taking an immense sweep, 
they enter Pennsylvania and unite at Tioga Point. It then 
flows in a southerly direction, for about fifteen miles, to the 
foot of the Appalachian mountains; then, taking a south- 
easterly course, -it leaves the secondary formation, enters 
the transition, and breaking through successive mountain 
chains, it finally enters the Wyoming valley, nine miles 
above Wilkesbarre. Here, forming a great bend, it pours 
to the southwest, continuing that course to Northumber- 
land, where its waters are augmented by a union with the 
West Branch. 

The structure of the Susquehanna bottoms is somewhat 
peculiar. They are not single alluvials, like those of the 
Delaware and other streams. Embracing a much wider 
extent of country, they are sometimes composed of two or 
three different stages, and the most luxuriant and produc- 
tive soil is followed, in quick succession, by precipitous ele- 
vations, condemned, apparently, to perpetual sterility. On 
both sides of these wide-spreading vales, the mountains rise 
in grandeur and beauty. The natural timber of these bot- 
toms indicates a rich soil. It is composed of sugar maple, 
black walnut, elm, beech, etc. On the declivities of the 
mountains, pine, oak, and chestnut predominate. 

The West Branch is, in all its extent, a river of Pennsyl- 
vania. Rising far to the west, its source is less than thirty- 
five miles from the Allegheny river at Kittaning. This 
branch may easily be described from the map, where it will 
be seen, that it unites with the North Branch at Northum- 
berland. Thirty-five miles below this union the stream is 

* Hazard's Register. 



RIVERS. 19 

augmented by the entrance of the Juniata. Having again 
assumed a southeastern course, this great river passes the 
Kittatinny Mountain, a few miles north of Harrisburg, and 
something more than ten miles below, it passes the Cone- 
wago Hills, or South Mountain. Maintaining this course, 
for sixty miles farther, it is finally lost in the tide waters 
of the Chesapeake Bay. 

All the branches of the Susquehanna are remarkable for 
having a rapid course, and for being exempt from perpen- 
dicular falls. In addition to these peculiarities, the Juniata 
has, nearly, its entire course among craggy mountains; and 
strange as it may seem, is navigable through all these moun- 
tain passes, nearly to Bedford. 

When travelling from Bellefonte to Williamsport, we 
were unexpectedly delighted with very picturesque and 
charming scenery. Most of the day we followed the wind- 
ings of the West Branch of the Susquehanna. DelightM 
and fertile valleys spread along, skirted on one side by the 
river, and on the other by hills and mountains. Some of 
the hills are productive and well cultivated, resembling the 
beautiful hills in Washington county. We passed a num- 
ber of pretty villages, and numerous manufacturing estab- 
lishments. 

In some of these hills, on the west bank of the Susque- 
hanna river, extensive coal works have been commenced by 
a company of Bostonians. They have expended $100,000, 
and design to expend as much more, intending to erect large 
manufacturing establishments. 

In ascending the Susquehanna above Harrisburg, we find 
a variety of the most picturesque and beautiful scenery. 
It is thought, by some, not to be excelled, even by the 
scenery on the North river, or at Harper's Ferry. The 
sideling hills open to our view extensively cultivated fields; 
at the same time, we behold the meandering river, embed- 
ded with rocks, or covered with clustering islands, the canal, 
extending along the banks, the gaps, through which the 
river passes, the bold eminences, rising to the heiii^ht of 
900 feet, and the beauteous grandeur of the more distant 
mountains. These mountains seem to cross the river, and 
arrest its progress; but not so; the river winds round the 
spur of the mountain, then meets another spur, which 
sends it in an opposite direction, then another, and still 



20 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

another; till finally it overcomes all impediments and passes 
on to the ocean. 

At Dauphin, eight miles above Harrisburg, is a very 
bold elevation. The mountains rise in towering eminences, 
on both sides of the river. The precipitous elevation com- 
mences from the very banks, a place being dug just wide 
enough for the road. The mountain seems, in a great 
measure, composed of immense masses of rocks, raising 
their towering eminences in frightful attitudes. Numbers 
breaking away from the great mass, have thrown around their 
shattered fragments. It would seem, that in some mighty 
agitation, nature had been sporting with these massy rocks, 
and dashed them into a thousand pieces. Others, suspend- 
ed from the ragged cliffs, seem ready to crush the astonished 
beholder. 

When viewing this exhibition of nature's grandeur, we 
were led, from nature, to reflect on the greatness of nature's 
God. Great, indeed, must be that Being, who weighs the 
mountains in scales, and the hiils in a balance. Great too 
must be the agony of those, who shall one day call on the 
rocks to fall on them, and the mountains to cover them from 
the presence of God, and the wrath of the Lamb. 

A traveller, who had stopped at a small village on the 
Susquehanna, writes as follows: 

" At this place is a large bottom formed by the junction 
of the Tunkhannock creek with the Susquehanna river. 
Several fine farms are spread over it; and along the banks 
of the river, for a great distance, are some of the most 
magnificent trees I ever saw. They are elm, sycamore, 
and black walnut; the last of which flourishes on the bot- 
toms of this river, with surpassing luxuriance. The river 
here is about thirty rods wide, and we crossed it in a flat- 
boat. 

*'Did you ever see the Susquehanna river? If not, you 
have yet to see the most beautiful stream in America. I 
speak understandingly, for I have seen the pride of Ameri- 
can rivers. I have been conversant with the Connecticut, 
the Hudson, and the St. Lawrence. I have travelled on the 
Ohio, the Potomac, and the Delaware. I have seen the 
Allegheny, the Monongahela, and the Mohawk sweep the 
base of their native mountains; but none will compare with the 
clear pure waters, gathered from a million of springs, the 
exceeding variety and freshness of its banks, the high pictu- 



RIVERS. 21 

resque mountains, and deep shaded valleys; the broad rich 
bottoms, and gently sloping hills; the handsome villages and 
quiet hamlets; the bold craggy precipices, rocks, and dark 
wild glens; and above all, with the broad sleeping basins, 
and the noisy, shallow ripples of the Susquehanna. At its 
numerous crossings, whether by ford, ferry, or bridge, it 
has its own unpretending beauties, and holds, till its 
waters mingle with the brine of the sea, its pure distinctive 
character."* 

Viewing a map of the United States, west of the Atlantic 
slope we perceive an extensive valley, extending from the 
northern part of Virginia, over western Pennsylvania to 
New York. This valley gives rise to two rivers, the Alle- 
gheny and Monongahela. Pursuing a course directly oppo- 
site to each other, they meet near the centre of the valley, 
and form the Ohio. With a slight exception, western 
Pennsylvania is watered by these three rivers, namely, the 
Allegheny, Monongahela and Ohio. Pursuing a north- 
westerly course, from Pittsburg to Beaver, twenty-five 
miles, the Ohio takes a bold sweep to the southwest and 
west, for twenty miles, and then leaves Pennsylvania. 

I think, my dear pupils, you would be very much de- 
lighted with the scenery on the Ohio. It is, at once, grand, 
picturesque, and beautiful. The hills around Pittsburg are 
400 feet high, and, as is said, continue that height for a 
hundred miles down the Ohio. The scenery on this river, 
is said very much to resemble that of the Hudson, with this 
exception, that on the former, the hills occasionally recede 
from the river, leaving the banks skirted with fertile bottoms. 

Sailing from Pittsburg to Beaver, 25 miles, the prospect 
is varied and very interesting. The eye of the traveller is, 
at once, arrested by various combinations of nature and art; 
as, the crowd of steamboats, numerous boats employed to 
carry coal down the Ohio, the bridges over the Allegheny 
and Monongahela, the aqueduct, the towering eminences, 
which rise, in some places, almost perpendicularly from the 
river, the railroad down which the coal is precipitated, 
thickly embowering woods, naked roots, the luxuriant 
green, with which some of the highest summits are covered, 
the bluffs on the side adjoining the city, the city itself, col- 
iimns of smoke ascending from the numerous manufactories^ 

* Hazard's Register* 
3* 



22 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

the beautiful Ohio, etc. All these conspire to fill the mind 
with mingled emotions of pleasure and grandeur. The nu- 
merous exhibitions of art tell us what man is capable of do- 
ing; the grandeur of surrounding nature raises our thoughts 
to God. 

As we descend the stream, we have a view of the Theo- 
logical Seminary, handsome country seats, fields richly 
cultivated, numerous manufacturing establishments, ihe road 
beautifully winding along the foot of the hills behind the 
intervening trees, the passing traveller, immense flocks of 
cattle driven to market, handsome villages, and now and 
then a proudly elevated spot, yielding its rich reward to the 
industrious husbandman. Again the towering hills rise in 
their greatness, and demand our every attention. Soon, 
however^ they recede from the river, and suddenly there is 
presented to our view the widely cultivated fields, that skirt 
the margin of the stream. The Ohio is a very crooked 
river, and occasionally, we seemed sailing directly against 
the hills. Again, we pass the bend, and the view from be- 
hind is completely closed up. So delighted were we with 
the scenery, that we could almost wish our boat to be arrest- 
ed in her progress, that we might linger to survey and ad- 
mire the fair form of nature, displayed before us. But 
amidst our admiration, our little boat begins to veer and 
tremble. We look around with surprise, and behold, a 
prouder sailer is ploughing the waters, and bids defiance to 
our little bark. 

Travelling from Pittsburg to the upper part of Pennsyl- 
vania, we saw something of the scenery on the banks of the 
Allegheny. At Pittsburg, we took our seats in an old worn 
out stage, with one of the axles bent, and one of the tires 
loose, and as we began seriously to think, that it was not 
safe to travel in such a conveyance, "smack went the whip, 
round went the wheels," and away we were driven post- 
haste. The scenery however, so strongly attracted our at- 
tention, that soon, the apparent danger was almost forgot- 
ten. We highly enjoyed a view of the towering hills, which 
extend along the banks of the Allegheny, and the fine pros- 
pect we had ofthat beautiful stream. Here, the appearance 
is more rugged, and we have more of nature's wildness, than 
on the Ohio. 

It is said, that few rivers, if any, excel the Allegheny in 
the transparency of its waters. The Indian name, literally 



RIVERS. 23 

translated, signifies Fair Waters. After uniting with the 
Monongahela, its course is marked by this characteristic, 
and by the rapidity of its current, which is strikingly con- 
trasted with the sluggishness and muddiness of the other 
stream. This may be seen for three miles below their junc- 
tion. 

One of the parties, who made the first trip to Olean 
Point, in May, 1830, thus describes the country. "The 
scenery along the Allegheny river, affords the greatest va- 
riety, and is, in many places, truly sublime. It would, 
generally, be very much like the North river scenery, if 
equally improved, and cultivated; more particularly so from 
Warren up to the Great Valley. There, the hills rise high- 
er, and the river narrows. Its courses are in all directions, 
and its mountains in all shapes, dressed, at this season of the 
year, in its richest robes. The wild flowers, along its 
shores, the towering trees, the beautiful evergreens, inter- 
spersed with the lighter maple green, give to the whole 
scenery an indescribable beauty." 

About four or five miles from Pittsburg, we crossed the 
Allegheny in a flat, connected with a chain of boats by 
ropes. To prevent their floating down the stream, the upper 
one was firmly anchored. An impulse was given to the fiat, 
which put all the boats in motion, and produced a current, 
that propelled the boats across the stream. It was truly inte- 
resting to see so many boats move along exactly together, 
while there was, apparently, no reason why they should 
move at all. 

How are rivers formed ? 

By what rivers is Pennsylvania drained? 

What is one of the most interesting subjects of Physical Geogra- 
phy? 

In what directions do the mountain streams flow ? 

Where does the Delaware rise ? By how many streams ? 

Through what mountains does the Delaware pass ? 

At what place does it meet the tide ? 

Where does it form its last great bend ? 

What is the length of the Delaware? 

How far is it navigable ? 

What has caused the Lehigh and Schuylkill to become livers of 
great importance ? 

Describe the Lehigh. 

What is said of the Lehigh, relative to the points of source and dis- 
charge ? 

How many feet does the Lehigh fall hi 100 miles T: 



24 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

What may be considered a remarkable fact, in relation to this river ? 

What is said of the scenery on the Lehigh above the Water Gap? 

What below ? 

How far is the Lehigh navigable ? 

What event led to the improvement of the navigation of this stream ? 

Describe the Schuylkill. 

Between what two rivers is there a strong resemblance ? 

How far is the Schuylkill navigable? 

What artificial communication unites the Schuylkill and Susque- 
hanna ? 

What account can you give of a Schuylkill freshet, which occurred 
in] 834? 

In what state does the Susquehanna rise ? By how many branches ? 

At what point do these branches meet ? 

Describe the Susquehanna from Tioga point to Northumberland ? 

In what respects is the Susquehanna peculiar ? 

Describe the valleys of the Susquehanna ? 

What is the natural timber of the Susquehanna bottoms ? 

What is the prevalent timber on the slopes of the mountains ? 

Describe the west branch of the Susquehanna ? 

Describe the Susquehanna, from Northumberland to its entrance 
into Chesapeake Bay ? 

What is the name of the southwest branch of the Susquehanna ? 

For what is the Juniata remarkable ? 

How far is it navigable ? 

Describe the Juniata ? 

What do you recollect about the scenery from Bellefonte to Wil" 
liamsport ? 

What can you tell about the scenery on the Susquehanna, above 
Harrisburg ? 

What solemn reflections might arise in view of this scenery ? 

What account does a traveller give of the Susquehanna river 1 

What is the extent of a great valley here alluded to ? 

To what two rivers do the extremes of this valley give rise ? 

At what place do the Allegheny and Monongahela meet ? 

Describe the Ohio river from Pittsburg till it leaves Pennsylvania ? 

At what distance, down the Ohio, do the hills continue 400 feet 
high? 

What is the difference of scenery on the Ohio and North River ? 

In sailing from Pittsburg to Beaver, what are some of the nume- 
rous objects, which, at once, arrest the eye of the traveller ? 

What do the numerous exhibitions of art tell us ? 

The grandeur of surrounding nature ? 

What objects present themselves as we descend the stream ? 

What is remarked of the scenery along the banks of the Alle- 
gheny ? 

What is there peculiar in the manner of crossing the Allegheny, a 
few miles above Pittsburg ? 



RIVERS. 25 

LETTER V. 

GEOLOGY. 

Pennsylvania is divided, by geologists, into three 
great sections, primitive, transition, and secondary. These 
divisions, altliough strikingly marked by the rocks which 
characterise them, are, nevertheless, mixed with the strata 
which belong to the other formations. The secondary, is 
thought to be the most exempt from foreign ingredients. 
The boundaries of all, however, are very irregular, and 
indefinite. 

The southeast portion of the state belongs to the primi- 
tive formation ; that portion which extends from the primi- 
tive to the Allegheny Mountain belongs to the transition ; 
and the remainder is considered as belonging to the secon- 
dary. 

The rocks , which characterise the primitive formation, 
are granite, gneiss, mica slate, clay slate, primitive lime- 
stone, primitive trap, topaz rock, quartz rock, primitive 
gypsum, white stone, etc. This formation is also distin- 
guished by the outline of the mountains. They do not 
extend in regular chains, but are found in detached masses ; 
some having a circular waving form, with rounded flat tops, 
others having the form of a pyramid, and others again 
resembling a cone. Granite, in large masses, is not found 
in this state. The principle rock is gneiss. 

The line of demarcation, between the transition and 
secondary formation, extends from Bedford, in a northeas- 
terly direction, on or near the Allegheny Mountain through 
the state. The line, which separates this formation from 
the secondary, is not so distinctly traced, as that which 
separates the transition, from the primitive. Numerous and 
extensive valleys, of secondary limestone, are found filled 
with shells, whilst transition rocks, characterise the ridges 
on each side. And not only so, but frequently they are so 
mixed, and interlaid, as to render it very difficult to distin- 
guish them. The outline, of the mountains of this forma- 
tion, is very diflferent from that of the primitive, being long 
parallel chains, extending in straight lines, varying very 
little in height. 

In this formation are found metals, and those immense 



26 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

beds of anthracite coal, which so peculiarly distinguish 
this state. There are many extensive caves, in the lime- 
stone of the transition formation, where the bones of various 
animals are |found. In Laurel Hill is a cavern with a very 
narrow entrance, and various winding passages, which has 
been traversed two miles. It is formed of soft sandstone, 
and its roof is covered with millions of bats. At Durham, 
in Bucks county, on the Delaware, is a cave in the limestone 
rocks, abounding with pools and rivulets of water. 

In the secondary formation, salt has been discovered, in 
very many places, between the Allegheny Mountain and 
the Ohio river. A remarkable fact, in the geology of this 
formation, is, that detached masses of granite are found 
lying from Harmony to Erie. 

ANTHRACITE COAL. 
The great mineral treasures of Pennsylvania, are coal, 
iron, and salt. They are all found in great abundance, and 
with her agricultural advantages, will constitute the princi- 
pal sources of her future wealth. The anthracite coal is 
found in the transition formation, and, with some few excep- 
tions, in the whole of that which is east of the Susquehan- 
na river. The northern limits are on the sources of the 
Lackawannock river, on the borders of the Susquehanna, 
Wayne, and Luzerne counties. AVestward, it extends down 
the Susquehanna, through the Wyoming valley to Berwick, 
in Columbia county, a distance of 80 miles. The average 
width of this coal field, is estimated at two miles, and the 
thickness of the strata, from five to fifty feet. Allowing the 
average thickness to be 12 feet, this field must contain 
1,325,370,000 tons of coal, and would not, probably, be 
exhausted in 10,000 years. 

Another coal field extends from the southeastern part of 
Luzerne, and the southwestern part of Northampton, in a 
westerly direction, to the Susquehanna river. This field 
has been but imperfectly explored. Its length, from the 
Susquehanna to the Lehigh, is supposed to be 60 miles, its 
width about 7 miles. 

A third coal field commences in Northampton county, on 
the Lehigh river, at Mauch Chunk Mountain. It extends 
westerly through Schuylkill and Dauphin counties to the 
Susquehanna river ; being seventy-five miles in length, and 
having an average breadth of six miles. 



GEOLOGY. 27 

This coal region, in its whole extent, is, for the most part, 
limited on the northwest by the Susquehanna river. But 
in Luzerne county, the coal runs under the stream, and is 
found in Shawnee Mountain on the opposite side of the 
river. 

The general aspect of these anthracite coal regions, is 
dreary and forbidding. With the exception of some val- 
leys, which are indeed delightful, it holds out few induce- 
ments for cultivation. It is covered with parallel ridges of 
mountains, with table-land summits, having an elevation 
of 1500 feet. The forests on these mountains have been 
devastated by repeated fires, leaving, especially on their 
summits, only a few scattered trees. It is thought, that at 
some future period, they may, perhaps, afford pasturage 
for cattle and sheep. At present, they are wholly unculti- 
vated, being the haunt of wild beasts, the dismal abodes of 
howling wolves, of bears, panthers, rattlesnakes, and other 
savage animals, wont to dvvell in the wilderness. Recently, 
within the space of three years, twenty or thirty pan- 
thers were killed by the hunters of one township "in this 
region. 

The beds and veins of anthracite extend from northeast 
to southwest ; and may often be traced, for a considera- 
ble distance, by the compass. The strata of particular 
mines varies very much in form. They generally conform 
to that of the upper surface, being sometimes curved or 
saddled, or mantle-shaped, or dome-shaped. The roofs and 
floors of these veins or beds of coal, are fine grained clay 
slate, of dark colour, and thin strata, and generally contain 
sulphuret of iron. The sulphates of iron are often con- 
spicuous in the schist, presenting impressions of plants and 
marine shells. There is much diversity in the quality of 
coal, varying in density, purity, and inflammability. Some- 
times it is greatly injured by the intermingling of slate; 
sometimes the coherence is so slight, that it does not defray 
the expense of tranpsortation. The Lehigh coal is much 
superior to that of the Schuylkill. In inflammability, how- 
ever, the latter has the decided advantage. That in Dau- 
phin county ignites so readily, that it is said to have been 
mistaken for bituminous coal. These coal fields are all 
accessible by water, and so important is the coal trade, that 
it has occasioned great improvements in the^navigation of 



28 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

the Lackawannock, Lehigh, Schuylkill, and north branch 
of the Susquehanna. 

BITUMINOUS COAL. 

Bituminous coal is a very different article from the anthra- 
cite. It is much more inflammable, makes a much more 
cheerful fire, but produces vast quantities of smf)ke. This 
coal is found very abundantly in the secondary formation, 
and, as is generally believed, in that alone. But if such be 
the fact, this formation extends much farther east than is 
usually supposed, since this coal is found in Huntingdon 
and Bedford counties, east of the Raystown branch of the 
Juniata. West of the Allegheny Mountain it prevails 
every where, throughout the state, unless we except the 
northwest corner. The beds of this coal are very unequal 
in thickness, varying from one inch to six feet and more. 
The average thickness is five feet. The beds which most 
nearly approach the Philadelphia market, are those found in 
Dauphin, Lycoming and Clearfield counties. And so im- 
portant are they esteemed by the state, that, in order to 
have access to them, particularly those of the latter counties, 
the Slate Canal was continued along the West Branch, to 
the mouth of the Bald Eagle. 

The following is an extract from the Report on the 
Coal Trade. 

*' The coal trade of Pennsylvania, recently and suddenly 
starting into existence, now constitutes one of the main 
branches of our domestic industry, and an important por- 
tion of the commerce of the state and the Union. It has 
given a new stimulus to individual, as well as national en- 
terprise, and affords active and profitable employment, for 
numerous and various classes of the community. It has 
introduced a spirit of improvement, interspersing the coun- 
try with canals and railroads, which by connecting the 
distant parts together, promote the convenience and pros- 
perity of the people, while they add to the strength, and 
elevate the character of the state. It has raised up, in our 
formerly barren and uninhabited districts, an intelligent and 
permanent population, and converted the mountains into 
theatres of busy life, and our hitherto waste and valueless 
lands, into sites for flourishing and populous villages. It 
has opened a new field for the investment of capital, the 
expenditure of labour, and the pursuit of all the purposes of 



GEOLOGY. 29 

to those engaged immediately in the trade, but are becoming 
general and universal. Possessing all the varieties of their 
species, anthracite and bituminous; furnishing a cheap and 
preferable article of fuel; and affording new facilities to the 
manufacturer, the mineral coal of Pennsylvania novir exerts 
an influence on every other branch of trade, afibrding the 
means of rearing, and permanently supporting on this side of 
the Atlantic, all the mechanical arts and handicrafts of the 
old world."* 

It appears, that the number of vessels which departed 
from Philadelphia, freighted with coal, during seven months 
in 1834, was 1400. 

IRON. 

Iron ore is found in almost every part of the state, but in 
the primitive formation it exists only in limited quantities. 
In wide spread calcareous valleys, between the mountain 
ridges, it is found in the greatest abundance, and of a supe- 
rior quality. The counties most noted for the production 
of iron, are Centre, Huntingdon, Mifflin, Berks, Lancaster, 
and Cumberland. The iron, manufactured in those coun- 
ties, is distinguished for its valuable qualities, such as tena- 
city, malleability, etc. The number of furnaces in the state 
is probably near seventy, and the quantity of iron manufac- 
tured 50,000 tons, or more. 

SALT SPRINGS AND SALT WORKS. 

Throughout Western Pennsylvania salt springs are nu- 
merous. Those which produce most abundantly, are found 
near the margins of the Conemaugh and Allegheny rivers. 
To procure water sufHciently strong for the manufacture of. 
salt, it is necessary to perforate the earth to the depth of 
three hundred and fifty, or seven hundred feet. 

The preparations necessary for the manufacture of salt, 
are somev\^hat expensive, costing between two and three 
thousand dollars. In fitting up a well, the most important 
part is the boring; but furnaces, vats, and other apparatus 
are necessary. A great deal of fuel heing used, the furnaces 
are located near strata of coal, where it can be procured for 
less than one cent per bushel. 

We had the gratification of visiting the salt works near 
Pittsburg, where the water was found to be sufiiciently 

* Hazard's Register. 
4 



30 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

strong, at the depth of four hundred and fifty feet. Tliese 
works are situated on the banks of the Ohio, opposite a hill, 
richly supplied with coal. Viewing the pumps, the im- 
mense vats, the rapid evaporation of the water, the fine 
crystal salt, etc., was truly interesting. Yet our examina- 
tion was exceedingly hurried, the furnace being so exces- 
sively hot, it seemed as thougfh we must escape for our 
lives. The wells are tubed with copper, have copper 
pumps, and are worked either by horse power or steam. 
The water is first thrown into large troughs, where it is 
allowed to settle; it is then removed into pans of cast iron; 
after boiling, it is drawn into vats, and the earthy particles 
are precipitated. Next, it is placed in boilers, where, by 
rapid evaporation, the watery particles escape, and the salt 
is deposited in fine crystals. 

The resources for the manufacture of salt in Pennsyl- 
vania, seem inexhaustible. The salt works are numerous, 
and constantly increasing, and the facilities for transporta- 
tion very great. It may be conveyed by the canal and 
steamboat navigation easterly, to Philadelphia, and west- 
erly, down the Ohio to New Orleans, etc. In 1832, the 
capital, employed in the salt works was estimated at 
400,500 dollars, and the amount of salt annually manufac- 
tured 600,000 bushels. The cost per bushel is twelve and 
a half cents. 

The difiiculty of procuring salt, was thought to be a great 
impediment to the settlement of Western Pennsylvania. It 
was all transported over the mountains on horses, and gene- 
rally sold at ten dollars per bushel. Money was then 
worth ten times as much as it is now. 

Some of the other minerals, found in this state, are cop- 
per, lead, limestone, etc. Copper ore, in a variety of com- 
binations, is found in many places among the mountains. 
The limestone of this state affords good marble. On the 
Schuylkill, in Montgomery county, is a quarry of a bluish 
shade, which is extensively wrought. The marble is ex- 
ported, and much of it is used for ornamental purposes, in 
the city of Philadelphia. There are quarries of slate in 
York, Lancaster, Northampton, Lehigh, and other parts of 
the state. From Northampton, slates for roofs and those 
of a finer quahty, for schools, are procured. 

SOIL. 
The soil of Pennsylvania is eminently adapted to all the 



GEOLOGY. ' 31 

purposes of agriculture, containing a greater proportion of 
good land, than either of the Atlantic states. This fact 
arises from the geological arrangements, the greater part of 
the state consisting of transition and secondary formations, 
in which the soil is generally rich and productive. The 
land, bordering on the rivers, in the primitive formation, is 
of a superior quality, but generally, the soil, in this divi- 
sion, is light. 

The small portion of primitive, in the southeast corner 
of the state, is succeeded by a vast extent of transition, 
seventy miles in width, terminating, as we have seen, near 
the summit of the Allegheny Mountain. In this formation, 
is found much land which is rich and productive; that por- 
tion which extends through Chester, Lancaster, and York, 
is eminently so. Here, limestone and marble of a superior 
quality, are found. Between the Blue Ridge and Kittatinny 
Mountain, is the Kittatinny Valley, sometimes called the 
Great Limestone Valley. It is between fifteen and twenty- 
miles in width, bending with the mountains. The south- 
east part is formed of transition limestone, the northwest 
of clay slate; the line of demarcation being nearly in the 
centre. The whole extent, within the state, is about one 
hunderd and sixty miles. 

The limestone section is rather level, having a most pro- 
ductive soil. Planted with towns and villages, — highly cul- 
tivated, and thickly populated, the inhabitants, pursuing the 
business of agriculture, enjoy, in rich profusion, the boun- 
ties of Providence. In all limestone countries, great incon- 
veniences result from the unequal distribution of water. 
While some portions are well supplied, others are so desti- 
tute, that the inhabitants are not able to procure enough for^ 
domestic purposes. The slate region is more hilly, and 
the soil less prolific. 

In the remainder of the transition, the soil is greatly 
diversified. It is good or bad, according as limestone is 
more or less prevalent. Throughout the region of anthra- 
cite coal, the country is unproductive, and may be pronoun- 
ced sterile. The exceptions are, the alluvials, on the Dela- 
ware. Susquehanna, and their principal tributaries. Limi- 
ted by the Susquehanna river on the east, and the Kittatinny 
Mountain on the south, is a large tract of country, which 
seems to be founded on limestone. It extends into the val- 
leys, and is supposed to uphold the mountains. Wherever 



32 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

it mingles with the soil, it produces great fertility; but like 
all limestone sections, is subjected to the inconvenience of 
a very partial supply of water. 

The vegetable productions of the transition are greatly 
diversified. The forests abound with all the varieties of 
timber, indigenous to the soil; and the scenery is diversified 
by every variety, from the rippling rill, and shady grove, to 
the spreading vale, the towering mountain, and the de- 
scending cataract. 

" The river navigation of the primitive and transition 
formations, agreeably to their general character, is obstructed 
by many rapids and falls; and is liable to the freshets of 
mountain torrents, breaking through narrow and rocky pas- 
sages, with all the extremes and inconveniences, of too 
much or too little water. 

" The secondary formation, extending from a line running 
on, or near the Allegheny Mountain, may be stated as gene- 
rally fertile; for, though the soil may be sandy on the hills, 
where the sandstone prevails, it is uniformly rich in the 
valleys. In approaching the Allegheny from the eastward, 
it presents a bold and precipitous front; and from two to five 
miles will bring the traveller to the summit, whence the 
descent westward is scarcely perceptible. Laurel Hill 
is so steep, precipitous, and rugged, that it cannot be 
cultivated. Its scenery is wild, and its aspect very forbid- 
ding. The whole of Western Pennsylvania may be charac- 
terised as table land. The soil of the mountain valleys is 
well watered and excellent. Leaving the mountains, the 
country consists of arable hills, or, as it is commonly called, 
rolling ground. Near the watercourses, the hUls are some- 
times too steep for cultivation, although possessing a fine 
soil, and clothed with a luxuriant growth of timber. 

" The general, nay, almost universal fertility of Western 
Pennsylvania, must, of course, be ascribed to the constitu- 
ents of the soil, which is a loam, having in various propor- 
tions, limestone, slate, coal, gypsum, salt, and vegetable and 
animal remains." 

FORESTS AND FOREST TREES. 

The Allegheny Mountain is richly clothed with almost 
every species of timber. Pine, in all its varieties, predomi- 
nates. The next species most prevalent are sugar maple, 
chest^ut and birch. In some places wild cherry, various 



GEOLOGY. 33 

species of oak, hickory, and ash, are very abundantly found. 
Pine, poplar, and chestnut grow to an enormous size. 
Some parts of the mountains are clothed with a vegetation, 
most luxuriant and delightful. The locust is abundant, in 
many places east of the Allegheny Mountain, but cedar is 
seldom found. 

In the valleys, and on the margins of the streams, hicko- 
ry, ash, sugar maple, cherry, and elm, prevail. The syca- 
more extends along the borders of the larger streams, and 
the hills are clothed with various species of oak. Black 
walnut is found in some places, and indicates the greatest 
fertility of soil. 

In the vicinity of Lake Erie, beech and sugar maple are 
very abundant. The branching roots of these trees spread 
in every direction; and although the soil is good, it is very 
difficult to clear. Near the sources of the Allegheny, and 
some of its tributaries in Potter county, are found immense 
forests of white pine, from which some parts of the west are 
supplied with vast quantities of boards and shingles. In 
consequence of the quantities of prairie land, in the vicinity 
of the Ohio, boards, etc. are of great demand in that region. 

AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTIONS. 

Pennsylvania is the most distinguished agricultural state 
in the Union. The principal article of cultivation is wheat; 
the next in value is Indian corn. Rye, barley, buckwheat, 
and oats are extensively cultivated; also German spelts, 
which is a species of wheat, and chiefly as food for horses, 
potatoes, turnips, cabbage, beans, peas, carrots, beets, etc. 
The cultivation of meadow is a very considerable object in 
this state. The summers are long enough to admit of two 
mowings, and even three on some grounds. On farms, 
that have springs and streams, dairies are built over them, 
so as to place the milk vessels in water. This is done to 
avoid the injurious effects of heat. Fruit trees are abundant, 
and the soil and climate promotive of their fruitfulness. 
Cherries, apples, and peaches abound. Honey is an object 
of attention, and abounds in Western Pennsylvania. Hemp 
and flax are extensively cultivated. Grapes are abundant, 
and some attempts have been made, near Philadelphia, to 
plant vineyards. 

The cultivation of silk has been successfully attempted in 
many places, with which the soil, climate, and waters of 

4* 



34 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

Pennsylvania, seem eminently congenial. Single counties 
are now selling sewing silk, annually, to the amount of 
several thousand dollars. Silk, prepared in Philadelphia, 
has been carried to Lyons in France, for examination, 
and found to be admirably adapted to all the uses of fabri- 
cation; and it is comfidently believed, by good judges, that 
American silk is superior in quality, to that produced in 
any other country. 

Into how many sections, have geologists divided Pennsylvania? 
name them. 

What portion of the state belongs to the primitive formation ? The 
transition ? Secondary ? 

Mention some of tiie rocks in the primitive formation. 

Name the principal rock in this state. 

Describe the line of demarcation, between the transition and secon- 
dary formation. 

What natural curiosities are found in the limestone, of the transition 
formation ? 

What are the great mineral treasures of Pennsylvania ? 

In vv'hat geological formation is anthracite coal found? 

East of what river is anthracite coal mostly found ? 

What counties form the northern limits of this coal ? 

What is the extent of the second coal field, here mentioned ? 

At what place does a third coal field commence ? 

What is said of the coal basin of Luzerne county ? 

General aspect of the regions, containing anthracite coal ? 

For what animals do the mountains of these regions afford a retreat ? 

Of what form are the strata of particular mines. 

What is stated respecting the quality of the coal? 

By what means are all these coal fields approachable ? 

To the navigation of what rivers have they given rise? 

Within what geological formation is the bituminous coal region? 

How does bituminous coal differ from anthracite ? 

What is the mean depth of the bituminous coal ? 

In what counties are the beds, which most nearly approach the Phi- 
ladelphia market ? 

What canal was made to reach the coal in Lycoming and Clearfield 
counties ? 

What are some of the good effects resulting from the coal trade in 
Pennsylvania ? 

In what counties is iron found most abundantly. 

What is the number of iron furnaces in the state ? 

Quantity of iron annually produced ? 

In what formation is rock salt found very extensively ? 

What springs are common in Western Pennsylvania ? 

On what rivers are found the most productive saline springs ? 

Cost of the preparations necessary for the manufacture of salt t 
Depth of the wells? 

Describe the manner of making salt. 



CLIMATE. 35 

What is the annual amount of salt made in Pennsylvania ? Cost 
j)er bushel ? 

What *is said of the comparative quantity of good land in Pennsyl- 
vania ? 

Soil in the primitive formation ? Exceptions ? 

What is the extent of the transition formation? 

Soil in this formation ? 

Between what mountains is the Kittatinny Valley ? 

Of what formation is the northeast part of the valley ? J 

The southwest? 

What is said of the limestone section? 

What account can you give of the population of this section? 

What is said of the deficiency of water in limestone countries ? 

How does the slate region compare with the limestone ? 

What is the soil throughout the region of anthracite coal ? 

What exceptions ? 

By what is the river navigation obstructed in the primitive and trans- 
ition formations?. 

Soil in the secondary formation? 

What is here said of the Allegheny Mountains ? Laurel Hill ? 

To what must the general fertility of Western Pennsylvania be as- 
cribed ? 

What species of timber abound in the Allegheny Mountains? 

What trees prevail in the valleys, and on the margin of the streams ? 

What trees are abundant in the vicinity of Lake Erie ? 

Near the sources of what rivers are found immense foi'ests of white 
pine ? 

Uses made of this pine ? 

What IS said of Pennsylvania as an agricultural state? 

What is the principal article of cultivation ? 

Some of the other articles ? 

What is said of the fruit trees? 

In what part of the state does honey abound ? 

What two articles are extensively cultivated ? 

What is said of the cultivation of silk? 

LETTER VI. 

CLIMATE. 

The climate of Pennsylvania is, for the mo&t part, healthy 
and delightful, exempt, at once, from the sultry heat of the 
south, and the severe cold, and chilling frosts of the north. 
Snow falls in large quantities, and at limes, there is good 
sleighing. The greatest inconvenience of winter, arises 
from the frequent thaws, dampness of atmosphere, and very 
bad travelling. The dissolution of ice, at such times, is of- 
ten very destructive to property. 



86 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

The early part of spring is stormy and cold. In April, 
and the first of May, we have a damp atmosphere, attended 
with a chilly coldness. " But the last of May is truly de- 
lightful, the air is fragrant, and the country is clothed with 
the most luxuriant vegetation. 

Much of the weather in summer is hot ; though the 
heat is frequently interrupted by copious showers of rain, 
accompanied with thunder and lightning. 

By far the most delightful season, in Pennsylvania, is 
the autumn. Early in September, we perceive a gradual 
diminution of heat, cool evenings and mornings, and an 
agreeable temperature during the day. With a slow, but 
gradual increase of cold, the weather continues very pleas- 
ant till the last of October, or middle of November. About 
that time, the autumn is generally closed by a succession of 
rains, which are regarded as the harbingers of winter. It 
must, however, be acknowledged, that all the seasons are 
subject to great, and very sudden changes. 

It is said, there has been a diminution of water in Penn- 
sylvania; that some streams, which were formerly good 
mill seats, are now dry. This is supposed to be owing to 
the removal of the forests, and consequent increase of eva- 
poration. 

It is thought, that Western Pennsylvania, is subject to 
greater changes, than the eastern part of the state. The 
extremes of heat and cold are known to be greater. In the 
winter, the northwest wind sweeps over the land with un- 
interrupted violence, having neither mountains to interrupt 
its force, nor sea to soften its rigour. The lakes of ice and 
regions of snow, over which it passes, serve to increase 
the intensity of cold. The prevailing wind, in summer, is 
from the southwest. Coming from the gulf of Mexico, it 
follows the great valley of the Mississippi, for nearly two 
thousand miles, bringing with it an increased temperature. 
This accounts for the excess of heat and cold, with which 
this part of the state is visited. The whole of Western 
Pennsylvania is remarkably healthy. 

What is the climate of Pennsylvania ? 

What is said of the winter ? The spring ? The summer ? 

What is the most delightful season ? 

What is the climate of Western Pennsylvania ? 



INTERNAL IMPROVEMENTS. 37 

LETTER VII. 
INTERNAL IMPROVEMENTS. 

Pennsylvania is, perhaps, as much distinguished for her 
internal improvements, as for her manufactures and agricul- 
ture. It is said, that in this state, manual labour, of every 
kind, is performed with unusual skill ; that whatever is 
done by the hand, is well done. 'I'his, we suppose, is emi- 
nently the fact, in relation to her internal improvements, 
and accounts for the superior roads and bridges, which we 
find in various parts of the state. To Pennsylvania, must 
be awarded the praise of having constructed the first stone 
turnpike in the Union. 

Turnpike roads, of the most durable materials and best 
construction, extend in various directions, through the state. 
And it is thought, that there is no state road in the Union 
so extensive, and so well finished, as that from Philadelphia 
to Pittsburg, through the southern part of Pennsylvania, 
The other principal turnpikes are, one from Philadelphia to 
Pittsburg, through the northern route, a diagonal one from 
Philadelphia to Erie, and two, which run north from Phila* 
delphia. The principal turnpike, in Western Pennsylvania, 
is one from Pittsburg to Erie. 

The southeastern, southern, and western parts of the 
state, have excellent common roads ; but in the northern 
counties, excepting where we find turnpikes, the roads are 
not so good. 

STATE CANALS AND RAILROADS. 

It has been about twenty-seven 5^ears, since railroads 
were first attempted in this state. These roads were short 
and roughly made, leading to mines and quarries. In 1823, 
an act was passed, authorising a company to make a rail- 
road from Philadelphia to Columbia. This was the first 
act of the kind in America. The road has been completed, 
not by the authorised company, but by the state. Since 
the period above mentioned, thirty or forty companies have 
been authorised to make railroads in different parts of Penn* 
sylvania. 

The internal improvements, by means of canals and rail- 
roads, are great and stupendous. The management and 



38 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

construction, of those undertaken by the state, are entrusted 
to three commissioners, appointed annually by the governor. 
The following includes a system of state canals and rail- 
roads. 







Miles. 


isylvania Canal, Central Division, 


171.75 




Western, " 


104.00 




Susquehanna, " 


39.00 




West Branch, " 


65.75 




North Branch, " 


75.48 




Delaware, '* 


59.75 




Pittsburg and Erie,* 
Total canals, 


73.40 




589.18 


Columbia Railroad, 


81.60 


Allegheny 


Portage, 
Total Railroad, 


36.69 




118.39 




Canals as above. 


589.18 



Grand total of Pennsylvania State Works, 707.47 

The Columbia Railroad, and the Allegheny Portage, may 
be considered links in the great chain of connection, be- 
tween the Delaware and Ohio rivers. The Columbia rail- 
road commences at the intersection of Broad and Vine streets, 
in the city of Philadelphia, and terminates at Columbia, in 
Lancaster county. Cost about $1,600,000. 

The Central Division of the Pennsylvania Canal, com- 
mences at Columbia, and follows the east bank of the Sus- 
quehanna river to Duncan's Island. Here it crosses the 
Susquehanna, enters the valley of the Juniata, and pursues 
that river to Hollidaysbnrg. This division was found a 
very expensive and arduous undertaking. The whole course 
of the Juniata river is among high craggy mountains. The 
banks are steep and rocky; and, in some places, run paral- 
lel with the river. In other places, the mountain intersects 
the stream, leaving only a narrow rocky pass. 

The Allegheny Portage Railroad commences at the ter- 
mination of the central division of the canals at Hollidays- 
bnrg, and terminates at Johnstown. 

* This includes the French Creek Feeder, and all the improvements 
in that section of the state. 



INTERNAL IMPROVEMENTS. 39 

The Western Division of the canal commences at Johns- 
town, and traverses the valley of the Conemaugh, the Kis- 
kiminitas, and Allegheny rivers, to its termination at Pitts- 
burg. Here the latter now is crossed by an aqueduct. 

Entire length of the preceding canals and railroads, from 
Philadelphia to Pittsburg, 394| miles- 

The Susquehanna Division commences at Duncan's Isl- 
and, and pursues a northerly course to Northumberland. 

The West Branch leaves the Susquehanna division at 
Northumberland, and passes along the west bank of the 
Susquehanna river, to the mouth of the Bald Eagle Creek. 

The North Branch commences at Northumberland, pur- 
sues a northeastern course, and terminates in Wyoming 
Valley, near Nanticoke falls. 

The Delaware Division commences at Bristol, in Bucks 
county, 18 miles above Philadelphia. 

The Pittsburg and Erie Canal is merely preparatory to a 
more ejttensive line of canals, designed, ultimately, to con- 
nect Lake Erie with the Ohio, at Pittsburg. 

" The success, which has attended the state improve- 
ments, yet but in their infancy, has stimulated incorporated 
companies to embark in similar works — -there being at this 
time completed, or in a course of construction, about 400 
miles of canal, and 520 miles of railroad, belonging to com- 
panies, thus swelling the aggregate to nearly 1000 miles of 
canals, and 640 miles of railroad within the common- 
v/ealth." 

CANALS CONSTRUCTED BY PRIVATE COMPANIES. 

Schuylkill Canal extends from Philadelphia to Mill Creek, 
in Schuylkill county, a distance of 110 miles. This is 
considered the most laborious and costly undertaking yet 
accomplished, by the efforts of private companies, in Ame- 
rica. It is distinguished for its numerous locks, for the ex- 
tent of embankments and rock excavation, and for contain- 
ing the first tunnel executed in the Union. The number 
of locks is nearly equal to those of the Erie Canal. 

The Union Canal extends from Middletown, on the Sus- 
quehanna river, to the Girard Canal, two miles below Read- 
ing, connecting the waters of the Susquehanna with those 
of the Schuylkill. This canal is 82 miles in length, 36 feet 
wide on the surface, 24 at the bottom, and four feet deep. 
This work was also achieved with great labour and expense, 



40 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

being crossed by 135 bridges, having twelve small and two 
large aqueducts, much rock excavation, an extensive stone 
wall to protect it from the abrasion of the water, and a tun- 
nel, 729 feet in length, 18 feet high, and 16 wide, cut 
through solid rock. 

Lackawaxen Canal commences at M'Carty's Point, and 
unites with the railroad at Honesdale, thirty-six miles in 
length. 

Lehigh Canal extends from Mauch Chunk to Easton* 
forty seven miles. It has forty-seven locks, and cost 
$25,000 per mile. This canal meets the Delaware Canal 
at Easton, which carries the produce to Bristol. From this 
place, the steamboats tow the canal boats to Philadelphia. 

Conestoga Canal extends from Safe Harbour, on the Sus- 
quehanna, eighteen miles, to the city of Lancaster. 

The Cadorus Navigation extends from York to the Sus- 
quehanna river. 

West Philadelphia Canal is constructed around the west- 
ern abutment of the bridge over the Schuylkill. 

RAILROADS. 

Constructed by private companies. 

Mauch Chunk Railroad extends from Mauch Chunk 
9 miles, exclusive of the branches, which are nearly 5 miles 
in length. 

Mount Carbon Railroad commences at the lower land- 
ings of Mount Carbon; length, including two branches, 7^ 
miles. 

Schuylkill Valley Railroad extends from Port Carbon to 
Tuscorora, length 10 miles. It has 20 branches, extending 
in various directions ; the aggregate length of which is 15 
miles. 

Schuylkill Railroad is 13 miles in length. Mine Hill 
and Schuylkill Haven Railroad commences at Schuylkill 
Haven, and terminates at the coal mines in the vicinity of 
Mine Hill Gap; length, including two branches, 20 miles. 
- Little Schuylkill Railroad commences at Port Clinton, 
and extends 23 miles, to the mines at Tamaqua. 

Lackawaxen Railroad commences at the termination of 
the Lackawaxen Canal, at Honesdale, and extends to the 
coal mines in Carbondale. Length, 16? miles. Here 
are 5 inclined planes, which surmonut an elevation of 800 
feet, on the Moosic Mountain. 



INTERNAL IMPROVEMENTS. 41 

West Chester Railroad connects the Columbia Railroad 
with the village of West Chester. Length 9 miles. 

The Philadelphia, Germantown and Norristown Rail- 
road, is about 19 miles in length. 

Lykens Valley Railroad, extends from Broad Mountain 
to Millersburg, on the Susquehanna in Dauphin county. 

The Philadelphia and Trenton Railroad is 26.25 miles in 
length. 

The Central Railroad commences near Pottsville, and 
terminates at Sunbury, on the Susquehanna. A branch, 
7 miles long, leaves the main branch, and extends to Dan- 
ville. Entire length 51.54 miles. * 

A Railroad extends from Columbia to Harrisburg. 

The Philadelphia and Reading Railroad is to be con- 
nected with the Philadelphia and Norristown Railroad. 
Length 40 miles. 

The Philadelphia and Baltimore Railroad, now in pro- 
gress, extends from Philadelphia to Wilmington in Dela- 
ware. 

The Tioga Railroad, now in progress, extends from the 
coal mines in Blossburg, in Tioga county, to the New York 
line. Length 27 miles. 

A Railroad is now constructing from Williamsport, in 
Lycoming county, to Elmira in New York. Length 67 
miles. 

When you travel, my dear pupils, you will find, that the 
locks and aqueducts of canals present interesting objects of 
attention. It is really very curious to see a large body of 
water, sufficient for heavily laden boats, carried over the 
stream below ; to see these same boats mounting perpen- 
dicular ascents, and then again descending with the most 
perfect ease. 

BRIDGES, 

The great number of bridges, which Pennsylvania con- 
tains, has given it the name of the State of Bridges, Be- 
tween sixty and seventy companies have been authorised to 
build bridges, and fifty have been completed at a cost of 
$2,750,000. But, in many of the counties, the inhabitants 

* See Tanner's Description of Pennsylvania Canals and Railroads. 
5 



42 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

have constructed bridges at their own expense. These 
bridges are usually of stone, costing from thirty to forty and 
even $60,000 each. 

On beholding these stone bridges, we are at once struck 
with the beauty and simplicity of their structure, while 
they seem to partake of the firmness of the everlasting 
hills. The largest stone bridge, in America, is on the Per- 
kiomen creek, on the road from Philadelphia to Reading. 

For the structure of its wooden bridges, Pennsylvania 
merits the highest commendation. In number, size, and 
grandeur of design they are scarcely equalled. In some 
parts of Europe, they are held up as specimens of bridge 
architecture, worthy of imitation. 

What praise, in relation to turnpikes, does Pennsylvania merit ? 

What is said of the turnpike from Philadelphia to Pittsburg, through 
the southern part of the state ? 

What are the principal turnpikes in Pennsylvania ? 

For how long a time, have short and rudely constructed railroads) 
been in use in Pennsylvania ? 

When was the first act passed, authorising a company to make a 
rairoad for public use ? 

By whom was this road completed ? 

What is remarked of the internal improvements in Pennsylvania, 
by means of canals and railroads. 

Can you name the principal State Canals, and Railroads? 

What rendered the Central Division a very difficult and arduous 
undertaking ? 

What is the extent of the Philadelphia and Columbia Railroad? 
Cost ? 

What is the extent of the Allegheny Railroad ? 

Can you mention some of the canals constructed by private com- 
panies ? 

Extent of the Schuylkill Canal ? 

For what is this canal distinguished ? 

What waters does the Union Canal connect ? 

Dimensions of the Union Canal ? 

By how many bridges is this Canal crossed ? Aqueducts ? 

Length of the tunnel ? 

Extent of the Lehigh Canal ? Cost per mile ? 

Examine the map and mention the counties through which the 
Central Division of the Pennsylvania Canal passes. Western Division 
etc. Columbia Railroad. Allegheny Portage Railroad. Schuylkill 
Navigation. Union Canal. Lehigh Navigation. Lackawaxen 
Canal. 

Mention some of the railroads, constructed by private compa- 
nies? 

What objects are mentioned as interesting to the traveller ? 



GOVERNMENT. 43 

What name has been given to Pennsylvania in consequence of her 
numerous and excellent bridges ? 

How many companies have been incorporated, in Pennsylvania, for 
building bridges ? 

Cost of some of the bridges, erected at county charges ? 

Of what material are these bridges mostly built ? 

What is said of the wooden bridges in Pennsylvania ? 

LETTER VIII. 
GOVERNMENT. 

The present constitution of this state was adopted in 
1790. In conformity to its requisitions, the government 
consists of three departments, the legislative, executive, and 
judicial. 

The legislative department is vested in a general assem- 
bly, consisting of a senate, and house of representatives. 
The number of senators cannot be less than one-fourth, 
nor greater than one-third of the representatives. They 
hold their office four years, and one-fourth are elected an- 
nually, on the second Tuesday in October. 

The representatives are chosen every year. Their num- 
ber cannot be less than sixty, nor more than one hundred. 
The legislature meet yearly, on the first Tuesday in De- 
cember. 

The executive power is vested in a governor, who is 
chosen once in three years, by the people, and cannot hold 
his office longer than nine, in any term of twelve years. 
He must be thirty years of age, and must have been a citi- 
zen, anJ an inhabitant of the state, seven years before his 
election. He has a qualified veto on the proceedings of 
the legislature, and has the exclusive appointment of most 
of the officers in the state. 

The judicial power is vested in a supreme court, in 
courts of oyer and terminer, a court of common pleas, a 
court of quarter sessions for each county, etc. The judges 
of the supreme court, and the court of common pleas, hold 
their office during good behaviour. 

In what year was the present constitution of Pennsylvania adopted? 
Of how many divisions does the government consist? 
What is stated respecting the number of senators ? 



44 



RE VENUE. 



How long do the senators hold their office ? 

On what day does the election of senators take place ? 

How often are the representatives chosen ? 

What is the number of representatives ? 

At what time does the legislature meet ? 

In whom is the executive power vested ? 

How often is the governor chosen ? 

On whose proceedings has the governor a qualified veto ? 

What officers are appointed by the governor ? 

Mention some of the courts, in which the judicial power is vested ? 

How long do the judges of the supreme court hold their office ? 



LETTER IX. 
REVENUE. 

You perceive, my dear pupils, that the expenditures of 
the State of Pennsylvania are very great. Her resources 
are drawn upon for internal improvements, for education, 
for the support of her officers of state, etc. etc. That you 
may have some idea of their extent, I will mention a few 
of them, namely, the sale of lands, fees on warrants and 
patents, auction duties, dividends on bank stock, bridge, 
canal, and turnpike stock, taxes on bank dividends, on 
offices and writs, canal tolls, etc. etc. 

The amount of tolls, received at the State Treasury, dur- 
ing the year 1836, was about $1,000,000. 

The whole amount of receipts at the State Treasury, 
from the first of November, 1835, to the 31st of October, 
1836, was $3,804,640 54. 

What are some of the objects, which draw upon the resources of 
Pennsylvania ? ~ 

What are some of the sources of her revenue ? 

What amount of tolls was received at the State Treasury, during 
the year 1836? 

Whole amount, received at the State Treasury, from the first of 
Nov. 1835, to the 31st of Oct. 1836 ? 

LETTER X. 

MAINTENANCE OF THE POOR. 
The plan adopted for supporting the poor in Pennsyl vania^ 



THE PENITENTIARY SYSTEM. 45 

had its origin in England, and is similar to that of the other 
states. It is thought, that some better system might be 
adopted; that the present, while it is oppressive to the in- 
dustrious, is calculated to encourage indolence and vice 
among the poor. In every township, officers are appointed 
to superintend the poor, whose business is to raise taxes, 
contract for the board and employment of the poor, to put 
out, as apprentices, orphan children, and others, who have 
not parents, capable of attending to them, etc. 

Each township is required to support its own poor, only, 
and is allowed to remove such paupers as belong to other 
parts of the state. 

In most of the southeastern, and central counties, the 
plan for supporting the poor, is somewhat improved. 
Almshouses are erected on large farms, where the poor 
find employment, and thus aid in supporting themselves. 

In what country originated the system adopted for supporting the 
poor in Pennsylvania ? 

What is remarked of this system? 

What is the business of the officers appointed to superintend the 
poor? 

What plan, in relation to the poor, is adopted in most of the south- 
eastern and central counties ? 

LETTER XI. . 

THE PENITENTIARY SYSTEM. 

To the praise of Pennsylvania, it may be said, that, from the 
earliest period, she has made continued effijrts to improve 
prison discipline, and mitigate the sufferings of the prison- 
er. The intercourse, which prisoners have been allowed to 
have with each other, has been most injurious in its effects. 
It has not only prevented reformation, but conduced to render 
more outrageous the lawless offender. Effects so injurious 
suggested the plan of solitary confinement. Such an idea 
was strenuously opposed, and many arguments were urged 
against it. By persevering efforts, the objections were re- 
moved, the legislature was induced to adopt the plan, and 
two penitentiaries have been erected, solely with a view to 
solitary confinement. One is located near Philadelphia, 

5* 



46 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

and is called the Eastern Penitentiary, the other, near Pitts- 
burg, is called the Western Penitentiary. 

" The Eastern Penitentiary* is situated in Spring Gar- 
den, on one of the most elevated, airy, and healthy sites in 
the vicinity of Philadelphia. The ground, occupied by it, 
contains about ten acres. The material, with which it is 
built, is gneiss, in large masses. Every room is vaulted, 
and fire proof. The design and execution impart a grave, 
severe, and awful character to the external aspect. The 
effect on the imagination is peculiarly impressive, solemn, 
and instructive. This is said to be the largest edifice in this 
country, and is the only one, which conveys an idea of the 
external appearance of those magnificent and picturesque 
castles of the middle ages, which contributed, so eminently, 
to embellish the scenery of Europe. 

" The front of this edifice is composed of large blocks of 
hewn stone. The walls are twelve feet thick at the base, 
and diminish at the top, where they are two and a half feet 
in thickness. A wall thirty feet in height encloses an area 
six hundred and forty feet square. At each angle of the 
wall, is a tower for the purpose of overlooking the establish- 
ment. Three other towers are situated near the gate of en- 
trance. The facade, or principal front, is six hundred and 
seventy feet in length. In the centre of the front, there is 
a building two hundred feet in length, and consists of two 
projecting massy square towers, fitly feet high. The mun- 
nioned windows in these towers contribute, in a high de- 
gree, to the picturesque effects 

"The great gateway, in the centre, is a very conspicuous 
feature. It is twenty-seven feet high, fifteen wide, and is 
filled by a massive wrought iron portcullis, and double oak- 
en gates, studded with projecting iron rivets, the whole 
weighing several tons, yet they can be opened with the 
greatest facility. A lofty octangular tower, eighty feet high, 
designed to contain an alarm bell and a clock, surmounts 
this entrance, and forms a picturesque and proportional cen- 
tre. On each side of the main building, (which contains the 
apartments of wardens, keepers, domestics, etc.,) are screen 
wing walls, which appear to constitute portions of the main 
edifice. 

" In the centre of the great court, is an observatory, 

* Fca- a View of the Eastern Penitentiary, see Letter XVI- 



THE PENITENTIARY SYSTEM. 47 

whence long corridors, seven in number, radiate. On each 
side of these corridors, the cells are situated. A novel and 
ingenious contrivance, in each cell, prevents the possibility 
of conversation, preserves the purity of the atmosphere, and 
dispensed with the otherwise unavoidable necessity of leav- 
ing the apartments, except when the regulations permit. 
Flues conduct heated air from large cockle stoves to the cells. 
Light is admitted by glass in the crown of the arch. The 
cells are eleven feet nine inches long, and seven feet six in- 
ghes wide. At the extremity is a door way, leading to a yard 
attached to each cell in the lower story. These yards are 
eighteen feet by eight; the walls of which are eleven and a 
half feet high." 

The cost of this building was $600,000. 

The prisoners are required to clean their rooms once a 
week, water being conveyed to them by means of pipes. 
Their washing and mending are regularly attended to ; they 
have straw to sleep on, plenty of wholesome food to eat, 
and when sick, a physician attends them, and they have 
food suited to their necessities. 

"This system of punishment is emphatically called the 
system of Pennsylvania, and consists in solitary confine- 
ment at labour, with instructions in labour, in morals, and 
religion. It is an experiment, in the success of which all 
good men are interested. The prospect of a beneficial re- 
sult is highly flattering as it relates to the morals of the 
prisoners, and the means of supporting them from the pro- 
duce of their labours." 

When a convict first arrives, he is placed in a cell, and 
left alone without work, and without any book. His mind 
can only operate on itself. Generally, but a few hours 
elapse, before he petitions for something to do, and for a 
Bible. No instance has occurred, in which such a petition 
has been delayed more than a day or two. If the prisoner 
has a trade, that can be pursued in his cell, he is put to work 
as a favour; as a reward for good behaviour, a Bible is given 
him. If he has no trade, or one that cannot be pursued in 
his cell, he is allowed to choose one that can, and is in- 
structed by one of the overseers. Thus work, and moral 
and religious instruction are regarded, and received as fa- 
vours, and are withheld as punishments. 

A minister of the Gospel frequently addresses them. 
When they have preachings the outer doors of their cells 



48 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

are opened. The preacher stands near the centre of the 
corridor, where all the prisoners can hear, while they can 
neither see the preacher, nor see each other. There, in si- 
lence, they listen to those truths which must .have a bearing 
on their destinies for eternity. 

As we gaze on the impenetrable walls, high towers, long 
narrow windows, double oaken, iron-riveted doors of this 
prison, our strength becomes weakness, and we reflect on 
the awful tendency of crime. As we enter the solitary 
cells, examine the thickness of the walls, the doors bolted 
and barred, we think of that prison which will be the abode 
of the impenitent for ever. 

What may be said of Pennsylvania in relation to prison discipline? 

What effects have resulted from the intercourse, which prisoners 
have been allowed to have with each other ? 

To what idea did these injurious effects lead ? 

With what view have the two penitentiaries, in Pennsylvania, been 
erected ? 

Where is the Eastern Penitentiary situated ? 

Of what material is it built ? 

How does its size compare with other buildings in the United 
States ? 

Of what edifices does the external appearance of this building con- 
vey an idea ? 

Height of the wall which surrounds the penitentiary? 

Number of towers? 

Of what number of towers does the central front building consist t 

What do you recollect about the great gateway in the centre ? 

By what is the gateway surmounted ? 

Where is the observatory situated ? 

What apartments radiate from the great court ? 

How are the cells situated ? How heated ? 

How is light admitted ? 

What is the cost of this building? 

In what does this system of punishment consist? 

What is done with a convict on his first arrival ? 

What request does the convict make, soon after he is put into his 
cell? 

How is the convict rewarded for good behaviour ? 

What means of religious instruction have the prisoners ? 

On what are we led to reflect, as we gaze on this edifice ? 

What thoughts are suggested to our minds, as we enter the solitary 
cells ? 



COMMERCE AND MANUFACTURES. 49 

LETTER XII. 

COMMERCE AND MANUFACTURES. 

The commerce of Pemisylvania is great and growing. 
Her annual imports amount to about ten millions, her ex- 
ports of domestic produce, to more than two and a half. 
The total amount of her exports, is eleven or twelve millions. 

You have already learned, that Pennsylvania is eminent- 
ly distinguished for manufactures, and that in this respect, 
it is the first state in the Union. The manufactories in 
Philadelphia and Pittsburg are almost countless, and there 
is scarcely a thriving town in the state, that has not some 
flourishmg manufacturing establishment. 

The average amount of iron, manufactured, is estimated 
at 50,000 tons, salt 600,000 bushels, cotton cloth more than 
21,000,000 of yards. There are several large woollen ma- 
nufactories, particularly in the vicinity of Philadelphia and 
Pittsburg. Glass is extensively manufactured. That made 
at Pittsburg, and in its neighbourhood, is estimated to 
amount to more than $500,000 per annum. 

The total value of manufactures is estimated at $70, 
000,000. 

The resources of Pennsylvania, for the manufacture of 
glass, iron, and salt, are as inexhaustible as her coal fields. 
Besides her manufactories for these articles, we might add 
her rolling and slitting mills, her steel furnaces, her manu- 
fatories for sickles, and edged tools, for ships, steam engines, 
steamboats, leaden shot and colours; her maunfactories of 
oil, of carriages, and household furniture, of paper, books, 
and thousands of other articles, which conduce to the com^ 
fort and convenience of man, many of which are elegant and 
highly ornamental. All these establishments are conducted 
with great skill and energy, and on an extensive and lucra^ 
tive plan. 

What is the amount of the annual imports of Pennsylvania? 

Exports of domestic produce? Tota] exports? 

In what respect is Pennsylvania the first state in the Union? 

What two cities in this state are highly distinguished for manufac- 
tories? 

What other places have flourishing manufacturing establishments? 

What is the average amount of iron manufactured? Salt? Cotton 
cloth? 



50 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

In what part of the state are larsfe woolen manufactories establish- 
ed? ^ 
Total amount of manufactures ? 
What manufactories can you mention beside those already named? 



LETTER XIII. 
EDUCATION. 

The advantages of knowledge have been long known and 
appreciated. That knowledge is power, we need not, at 
this enlightened period, undertake to prove. It is more 
than power; it is a delightful source of enjoyment, and 
conduces much to protect the possessor against the inroads 
of vice and indolence; and, consequently, to promote wealth, 
health, and their attendant blessings. Aware of these ad- 
vantages, the framers of our state, constitution required that 
schools should be established throughout the state, and that 
the poor should be instructed gratis. Still, education is in 
a backward state; and we have much to deplore on this 
subject, as the following extract will evince. " More than 
one-half the children of the commonwealth, between the 
ages of five and fifteen years, have not the benefit of school 
instruction. Hence, a large proportion of our adult popu- 
lation can neither read nnr write; and in some places, the 
inhabitants of whole districts are growing up destitute of in-* 
struction, unacquainted with their duty as citizens, unforti- 
fied by the influence of religion, and left to become fit sub- 
jects for that wild spirit of party, that has so often shaken 
to the centre our social relations, or to be the perpetrators 
of crime, and the miserable inmates of our jails and peni- 
tentiaries." 

I wish you to understand, that this statement, deplorable 
as it is, was taken from the report of the committee of the 
legislature in 1831, and may be relied on as true. 

Strange as it may seem, you are now prepared to believe, 
that, notwithstanding the provisions made by the constitu- 
tion, in 1790, in favour of education, the subject was ne- 
glected till 1809. At that time, an act was passed for the 
gratuitous instruction. of the poor. In 1831, another act 
was passed, laying the basis of an efficient school fund. 
Offiicers were appointed to receive these funds, and directed 



EDUCATION. 51 

to add the interest to the principal, until 1837, at which 
time the annual amount of interest will be $100,000. It was 
then to be distributed throughout the state, for the support 
of common schools. 

By the legislature of 1833, $75,000 were appropriated 
for distribution among the different counties, on condition, 
that the people of each school district raise by tax double 
that sum. Since that period, in addition to the $75,000, 
$100,000 has been appropriated from the Bank of the United 
States. The present year, 1837, the State appropriation is 
to be increased to $100,000, making the sum total of $200, 
000 to be distributed annually among the different counties. 
In 1836, the law, in relation to the amount to be raised by 
the school districts, was modified. Instead of being re- 
quired to raise double the amount, the several districts re- 
ceive their portions of the $75,000, on condition that they 
raise, by tax, the same amount. 

From a late statement of the legislature, it appears, that 
in seventeen of the counties, all the school districts have 
voted to raise the proposed sum, that in twenty-four coun- 
ties, half, or more than half of the districts have passed a 
similar vote; that one c ounty was not represented, and 
that of the remaining nine counties, less than half the 
districts have acceded to the proposal. * 

The counties, in which all the school districts voted 
to raise the proposed sum, are the following: Butler, Craw- 
ford, Delaware, Jefferson, M'Kean, Mifflin, Mercer, Potter, 
Susquehanna, Tioga, and Warren. 

In this statement, Philadelphia city and county are 
not included, having a particular school system of their 
own. 

Tract Societies, Bible Societies, and Sabbath schools are 
pretty generally established through the state; and from the 
late report of the Sunday School Union, it appears that the 
number of Sabbath Schools in Pennsylvania is 871, teachers 
8400, scholars 62,319. Probably the whole amount would 
much exceed this estimate, as the reports from auxiliaries 
are generally few and imperfect. 

But Pennsylvania is by no means without its colleges, 
and seminaries, in which are taught the higher branches 
of English education. Academies have been established 

* Monroe is included on Pike and Northampton. 



5^ GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

in almost every county town in the state ; and in some 
counties, there are two. The whole number of endowed 
aca(^emies and high schools, is nearly 100. 

At Bethlehem, Nazareth, and Litiz there are Moravian 
schools, which have long sustained a good reputation. In 
. many places, schools are established by individual effort, 
which are doing much to advance the cause of educa- 
tion. 

The universities and colleges, that have been incorpora--.. 
ted in this state, are the University of Pennsylvania, at 
Philadelphia, in 1755 ; the Western University, at Pitts- 
burg, in 1820; Dickerson College, at Carlisle, in 1783; 
FrankHn College, at Lancaster, in 1787, now closed ; Jef- 
ferson College, at Cannonsburg, in 1802 ; Washington 
College, at Washington, in 1806 ; Allegheny College, at 
Meadville, in 1815 ; Lafayette College, at Easton, in 1832; 
Madison" College, at Uniontown, iiow dosed, in 1827; 
Pennsylvania College, at Gettysburg, in 1832: a Collegiate 
Institution near Bristol, in 1833, noiv closed: and Marshall 
College, in Franklin County. The whole number, now ^in 
operation, is nine. In this respect, Pennsylvania exceeds 
every other state in the Union. 

A description of these institutions will be given, when 
speaking of the counties, in which they are located. 

Pennsylvania was the second English colony, into which 
the art of printing was introduced. In 1687, five years 
after the settlement of the colony was commenced, a print- 
ing press was established near Philadelphia. Here a sheet 
almanac was printed, Avhich was the earliest specimen of 
printing in the colony. The number of newspapers and 
periodicaljournals, now printed in the state, is highly credit- 
able, and said to be greater, in proportion to the population, 
than in any of the older states. The first literary journal, 
that appeared in the United States, was published in Phila- 
delphia. The whole amount, in 1828, was stated to be 
one hundred and eighty-five, of which, twenty-two were in 
the German language. 

Besides the seminaries above mentioned, there is in Penn- 
sylvania, an Institution for the Deaf and Dumb, an Institu- 
tion for the Blind, and five Theological Seminaries, nam.ely, 
the Lutheran Theological Seminary at Gettysburg, establish- 
ed in 1826; the Theological Seminary of the German Re- 
formed Church, at York, established at Carlisle, in 1824, 



POPULATION. 53 

removed to York, in 1826 ; the Western Theological 
Seminary, at Allegheny-town, established in 1828 ; the 
Theological Seminary of the Associate Reformed Church, 
in the vicinity of Canonsburg, established in 1834, and 
another, belonging to the same denomination at Pittsburg, 
established in 1828. 

The learned societies are, the American Philosophical So- 
ciety, instituted in 1769 , the Academy of Natural Sciences, 
founded in 1812 ; and the Pennsylvania Historical Society, 
founded in 1825, etc. 

What are some of the advantag-es of knowledge ? 

What is required in our state constitution relative to the establish- 
ment of schools ? 

What proportion of the children of Pennsylvania are without the 
benefits of school instruction ? 

What is stated respecting a large proportion of our adult population? 

What act was passed in 1809 ? 

In what year was laid the basis of an efficient school fund ? 

What is to be done with the interest of this fund ? 

In what year did the interest of this fund, amount to $100,000 ? 

What appropriation was made by the legislature in 1833 ? 

What appropriation has since been made by the U. S. Bank? 

What number of academies has been established in Pennsylvania? 

What number of universities and colleges ? 

Can you name them ? 

What other institutions can you mention ? 

LETTER XIV. 

POPULATION. 

The inhabitants of Pennsylvania are a mingled mass, 
being mostly the descendants of emigrants from different 
nations of Europe. From its first establishment, this state 
has been the asylum of the oppressed from vaiious nations. 
The greater part of the present inhabitants, are the descen- 
dants of English, Irish, Germans, Scotch, Dutch, Swedes, 
Fins, and Italians. The great mass of the population 
speak the English language, but in some portions of the 
state, the German is very generally used. 

In 1830, the white population amounted to 1, .309,900 

Free coloured, 37,930 

Slaves, - 403 

Total, I, 348,233 



54 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

From the first organization of the state, Pennsylvania 
has tolerated all religions, consequently, a great variety of 
denominations prevail. The most numerous are Presbyte- 
rians, Roman Catholics, German Lutherans, German Cal- 
vinists, Methodists, Episcopalians, Baptists, Friends, com- 
monly called Quakers, and Moravians. 

GERMAN POPULATION. 
The Germans are very numerous in Pennsylvania, par- 
ticularly, in the southeastern part of the state. Some of 
them came here and sat down without titles, and for a time, 
had trouble with the Indians; but in a few years, they ac- 
quired property sufficient to purchase them, and remained 
unmolested. 

" Bold master spirits, where they touched they gained 
Ascenderice — where they fixed their foot they reigned." 

They generally speak the German language, but it is 
very different from that spoken in Europe. Mucli of the 
German spoken in Pennsylvania, is intermixed with Eng- 
lish, and the language here, may be said to be in a state 
of transition from one living language to another; a state 
always unfavourable to literature. In the Moravian towns 
of Bethlehem, Nazareth, and Latiz, the German language is 
taught correctly, and the Saxon German, is spoken in great 
purity. 

You may i*ecollect, that it is said of the Germans, that 
they " are inveterate smokers, profuse talkers, and prolific 
writers." Few of them, in this state, are writers, but they 
smoke and talk almost incessantly. The stage drivers 
smoke nearly all the time, so that while travelling through 
the German settlements, we had the privilege of inhaling 
the fumes of tobacco, from the commencement to the end 
of our journey. 

In the German settlements, we generally find stone build- 
ings. Their houses are, for the most part, small; but their 
barns have a very commanding appearance. They are 
noble, large, and handsonjely built edifices, far superior to 
their houses; and are often mistaken for houses, and even 
for churches. One day, while riding in the stage, we ob- 
served a large white building, considerably enveloped with 
trees, and remarked to one of the passengers, " there is a 
fine church." " It is not a church, it is a barn," was the 
reply. 



MISCELLANEOUS QUESTIONS. 55 

The Germans are said to be remarkable for their large 
churches, which they erect in all their settlements. They 
are kind, hospitable, good neighbours, and honest citizens. 
They are, generally, practical men, little given to theory or 
speculation; and it is somfewhat remarkable, that, while in 
Germany, literature is cultivated to, at least, as great an 
extent as in any other parts of the world, a great prejudice 
exists against the common school system, among their de- 
scendants here. 

From what nations have the Pennsylvanians descended ? 
What was the population of Pennsylvania in 1830? 
How many free coloured ? How many slaves ? 
What are the most numerous religious denominations ? 
In what part of the state, are the Germans very numerous? 
What language do they generally speak? 

What are said to be prominent characteristics of the Germans, gene- 
rally ? 

Of what materials are their buildings usually made? 
What do you recollect about their houses ? Barns ? 
Character of the Germans ? 



MISCELLANEOUS QUESTIONS, NO. 1. 

What is the most sterile part of Pennsylvania ? 

What mountain forms a Ridge between the Eastern and Western 
waters ? 

What river is peculiar in the structure of its bottoms ? 

In what part of the state are salt springs found? 

The interest of what fund will amount to $1OO,€O0, in 1837 ? 

Population of Pennsylvania, in 1830? 

What benevolent effort has Pennsylvania made, from the earliest 
period ? 

What railroad is 36 miles in length ? 

Number of slaves in Pennsylvania in 1830? 

What canal is considered the most costly and laborious undertaking 
yet achieved by individual effort? 

Most numerous religious denominations in Pennsylvania? 

What languages are spoken in Pennsylvania ? 

Where is the Eastern Penitentiary located ? 

What are the six principal ranges of mountains in Pennsylvania ? 

What river has its entire course among craggy mountains ? 

Depth of wells at the salt works ? 

What two rivers meet at Pittsburg ? 

What valley is between the Kittatinny Mountain and Blue Ridge ? 

What naturaj objects cover nearly one-seventh of the area of Penn- 
sylvania ? 

What edifice is built mostly of gneiss? 

What plant is found, in great abundance, in Allegheny Mountain 
and Laurel Hill ? 



56 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

On what river are the hills 400 feet high? 

To what inconvenience are the inhabitants of limestone countries 
subjected ? 

In what geological formation is the river navigation obstructed by 
falls and rapids ? 

What tunnel is 229 feet in length ? 

Which is the largest building in the United States ? 

What are the geological divisions of Pennsylvania ? 

On what mountain does pine, in all its varieties, predominate ? 

Cost of the Eastern Penitentiary ? 

What do you recollect about the bridges of Pennsylvania ? 

To what geological formation does the southeastern angle of Penn- 
sylvania belong ? 

In what part of the state is sugar maple very abundant ? 

In what year was the present constitution of Pennsylvania adopted? 

What system of punishment consists in solitary confinement at 
labour, with instructions in labour, in morals, and religion ? 

In what geological formation is granite found ? 

What article of luxury abounds in Western Pennsylvania ? 

What officers of state hold their offices four years ? 

Annual product of iron ? 

What geological formations are separated by a line, extending from 
Bedford, in a northeasterly direction, through the state ? 

What praise, in relation to turnpikes, does Pennsylvania merit? 

What officers are elected on the second Tuesday in October? 

What is the annual product of salt in Pennsylvania ? 

In what geological formation is anthracite coal found ? 

What parts of the state have excellent common roads ? 

How often are representatives chosen ? 

Total amount of manufactures in Pennsylvania? 

What railroad is 82 miles in length ? 

What coal is found east of the Susquehanna river ? 

What state officer is chosen once in three years ? 

What proportion of the children of Pennsylvania, are without the 
benefit of school instruction ? 

What are some of the sources, from which the revenue of Pennsyl- 
vania is derived? 

What river meets the tide at Trenton ? 

General aspect of the region, in which anthracite coal is found? 

What coal is found in the transition formation ? 

What mineral is found, in great abundance, in Huntingdon, Cen- 
tre, and Mifflin counties, etc.? 

How long do the senators hold their office? 

How long since railroads were first attempted, in this state ? 

What kind ©f coal makes the most cheerful fire? 

What fact is stated, respecting a large proportion of our adult popu- 
lation ? 

dumber of colleges and universities in Pennsylvania? 



tS^ENERAL DIVISION. 57 

LETTER XV. 

DIVISION. 

This state is divided into fifty-three counties, which are 
endowed with special privileges, and entitled to a represen- 
tation in the legislature, in proportion to the number of in- 
habitants. 

The management of the affairs of the county, is entrust- 
ed to three commissioners, whose principal business is to 
raise funds for building bridges, making roads, erecting . 
county houses, etc. 

The counties are subdivided into cities, boroughs, and 
townships, each having their respective officers. Cities 
have their mayors, select and common councils, commis- 
sioners, etc. Boroughs have their burgesses, constables, 
assessors, etc. Townships have their overseers of the 
poor,^assessors, town clerks, etc. 

The state we shall divide into three great sections. East- 
ern, Central, and Western, marked out by the three great 
rivers of Pennsylvania, Delaware, Susquehanna, and Ohio. 

Eastern Pennsylvania, includes that portion of the state 
which is east of the Susquehanna river, and comprises all 
those counties, in which anthracite coal is found. In its 
geological structure, it belongs, mostly, to the transition 
formation. The southeastern angle belongs to the primi- 
tive, and some smaller portions pertain to the secondary. 

Central Pennsylvania includes that portion of the state 
which lies between the Susquehanna river and the Western 
Waters. This portion is very mountainous, particularly 
abounds in iron, and belongs, principally, to the transition 
formation. 

Western Pennsylvania, includes that portion of the state 
which borders on the Ohio and its tributaries. This region 
abounds in bituminous coal, salt and iron, and belongs, al- 
most exclusively, to the secondary formation. 

LETTER XVI. 

EASTERN PENNSYLVANIA. 

We will now give you a Description of the Counties 
with the principal towns, etc. in this section. 

6* 



38 



eaoGRArHY of Pennsylvania. 



Counties. 


When formed. 


Population in 1830. 


Philadelphia Co, 


and City, 1683, 


188,961 


Bucks, 


1682, 


45,745 


Chester, 


1682, 


50,910 


Lancaster, 


1729, 


76,631 


Delaware, 


1789, 


17,323 


Montgomery, 


1784, 


39,406 


Berks, 


1752, 


53,152 


Lebanon, 


1813, 


20,557 


Dauphin, 


1785, 


25,243 


Schuylkill, 


1811, 


20,744 


Lehigh, 


1812, 


22,256 


Northampton, 


1752, 


39,482 


Columbia, 


1813, 


20,059 


Luzerne, 


1786, 


27,379 


Pike, 


1814, 


4,843 


Wayne, 


1798, 


7,663 


Susquehanna, 


1810, 


16,787 


Bradford, 


1810, 


19,747 


Monroe, 


1836. 





PHILADELPHIA COUNTY. 

The county of Philadelphia consists of the city proper, 
with the adjoining districts of the Northern Liberties, Spring 
Garden, East and West Kensington, Southwark, Moya- 
mensing, and 13 townships, namely: Byberry, Moreland, 
Dublin, Oxford, Bristol, Germantown, Roxborough, Penns, 
Northern Liberties unimproved, Blockley, Kingsessing 
and Passyunk. Philadelphia was one of the three counties, 
formed immediately after the settlement of the colony. In 
its geological structure, it is altogether of primitive forma- 
tion. Productive flats extend along the water courses, in 
some places, particularly, at the mouths of the creeks. But 
for the most part, the banks are composed of bold, rocky 
elevations, handsomely adorned with elegant country seats, 
and well cultivated farms. 

In the vicinity of Darby creek, there was formerly an ex- 
tensive marsh, overflowed by the waters of the creek, and 
Delaware and Schuylkill rivers. Now, it is a fine produc- 
tive meadow, affording a rich supply of pasturage for im- 
mense herds of of cattle. 

The soil is diversified; but, generally speaking, it is very 
productive. 



PHILADELPHIA COUNTY. 59 

The two principal rivers of the county, are the Delaware 
and Schuylkill. The Delaware rolls its waters along the 
eastern boundary of the county for twenty-three miles, re- 
ceiving a number of creeks. One of the most interesting of 
these creeks is the Wissahickon, which rises in Montgome- 
ry county, and empties into the Schuylkill, 5 miles from 
the city. It is a rapid stream, drives a number of gristmills 
and factories, and winds through a very romantic and beau- 
tiful valley. This creek was so called from an Indian prin- 
cess of that name, who in time of danger concealed herself 
in the picturesque recesses of its shores. 

Entering the county at the northwest corner, the Schuyl- 
kill forms the boundary between this county and Montgo- 
mery, for four or five miles; then, winding in a southeast 
direction, it passes the great manufacturing village of 
Manayunk, washes the western limits of Philadelphia city, 
and, six miles below, enters the Delaware river. Above 
Manayunk, the shores are bold, precipitous, and picturesque, 
beautifully adorned with country seats, farm houses, and 
farms. The attention of the passing traveller is arrested by 
two beautiful cascades, formed by artificial dams. These 
cascades are much admired for their beauty, but highly valu- 
ed for their utility. One of them is at Fair Mount, and 
propels the machinery for the Water Works; the other is 
about two miles above Manayunk, and drives the numerous 
mills at that place. * 

* " In the year 1788, the bosom of the Delaware was first ruffled 
by a steamboat. The projector, at that early day, was John Fitch, a 
watch and clock maker by profession, and a resolved Infidel in theo- 
logy. He first conceived the design, in 1785, and being but poor in 
purse, and rather limited in education, a multitude of difficulties, which 
he did not foresee, occurred to render abortive every effort, of his most 
persevering mind, to construct and float a steamboat. 

" Applying to Congress for assistance, he was refused, and then, 
without success, offered his invention to the Spanish government, for 
the purpose of navigating the Mississippi. He, at last succeeded in 
forming a company, by the aid of whose funds, he launched his first 
rude effort as a steamboat, in the year 1788. So far, his success, 
amid the most mortifying discouragements, had been sufficient to prove 
the merit of his scheme. But a reverse awaited hira as discouraging as 
it was unexpected. The boat performed a trip to Burlington, a dis- 
tance of 20 miles, and while she was lying at the wharf, her boiler 
burst. The next tide floated her back to the city, where, after great 
difficulty, a new boiler was procured, and she again performed her trip 
to Burlington. The boat not only went to Burlington, but to Trenton, 
returning the same day, and moving at the rate of eight miles an 



60 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

Within the county of Philadelphia, six bridges have been 
erected over the Schuylkill, a Abating and drawbridge be- 
low the city, the Permanent bridge at Hig hstreet, the up- 
per bridge near Fairmount, Flat Rock bridge, one at Peters's 
Island for the accommodation of the Columbia Railroad, 
and one at Manayunk. 

The Permanent bridge was the first great fabric of the 
kind, undertaken in this part of the world. The work was 
achieved by individual effort, at a cost of $300,000. It has 
been about thirty-two years since its completion. "It con- 
sists of three wooden arches, supported by stone piers, with 
two abutments and wing-walls." The depth, to which the 
western pier is sunk, is truly astonishing, and said to be un- 
exampled in hydraulic architecture. It is supported by a 
rock, the top of which is forty-one feet nine inches below 
the average height of tide-water. In this pier, there are 
more than 7500 tons of masonry, and in the dams for it there 
are 800,000 feet of timber. In both the piers, are enormous 
stones, weighing from three to twelve tons each. To render 

hour. It is true, she would hardly perform a trip without some accident 
not from any error in Fitch's design, or conception, but at that time 
our mechanics were very ordinary, and it was impossible to have ma- 
chinery, so new and complex, made with exactness and competent 
skill. It was on this account, that Fitch was obliged to abandon the 
great invention, on which the public looked coldly. From these fail- 
ures, the boat was laid up as useless, unnoticed, and silently rotted in 
the docks of Kensington. Fitch became more embarrassed than ever, 
and after producing three manuscript volumes, he was carried off, by 
the yellow fever, in 1793. 

" Fitch was no doubt an original inventor of the steamboat. He was, 
certainly, the first that ever applied steam to the propulsion of vessels 
in America. Though it was reserved for Fulton to advance the appli- 
cation to a degree of perfection, which has rendered his name immor- 
tal; yet to the unfortunate Fitch belongs the honour of completing and 
navigating the first American steamboat. 

" Though the project of Fitch failed, yet he never, for a moment, 
doubted its practicability. He tells us, in his manuscript volumes, that 
in less than a century, we shall see our western rivers swarming with 
steamboats, and that his darling wish is to be buried on the remo- 
test banks of the Ohio, where the song of the boatmen may some- 
times penetrate the stillness of his everlasting resting place, and the 
music of the steam engine echo over the sods, that shelter him forever. 

" In one of his journals, there is this touching, and prophetic senti- 
ment. The day will come, when some more powerful man will get 
fame and riches by my invention ; but no body will think poor John 
Fitch is worthy of any attention. — Annals of Philadelphia. 



PHILADELPHIA COUNTY. 61 

the work more permanent, massy chains extend, in various 
directions, across the piers. 

The bridge at Fair Mount, is peculiar in its structure, 
having one stupendous arch, whose chord is 348 feet six 
inches in length, which, at the time of its execution, ex- 
ceeded any bridge, ancient or modern. It was built by 
Lewis Wernwag Esq., a self taught artist. 

So numerous are the bridges in this county, that scarcely 
a stream or rivulet, intersecting a public road, is widiout a 
stone bridge. 

Three railroads extend from the city; one leading to Nor- 
ristown, another to Morrisville opposite to Trenton, and a 
third to Columbia. Several others have been commenced. 
Many of the great roads in the county are turnpiked. 

Most of the religious denominations, existing in the United 
States, are to be met with in this county. The most nume- 
rous are the Presbyterians, Episcopalians, Methodists, 
Friends, and Baptists. 

The places for public worship in the city and suburbs, 
amount to more than 100. Of these, there are 10 or 11 
African churches, a Mariners' church, and public worship 
is held at the Almshouse, Orphan's Asylum, and Widow's 
Asylum. 

The number of societies, in the city and county, for the 
promotion of religion and morality is very great, too great 
to be here enumerated. In these societies we find various 
denominations classes, and ages. There are Tract socie- 
ties, Bible Societies, Foreigu Mission Societies, Home 
Mission Societies, Temperance Societies, Anti Slavery So- 
cieties, Colonization Societies, etc. 

But the glory of Philadelphia, is her eleemosynary insti- 
tutions. There is not a city in the Union, and perhaps in 
the world, of the same extent, which has made such com- 
plete provision for the poor, the sick, the distressed of every 
kind, as has Pliiladelphia. Well may it be called the city 
of brotherly love. Among the most important of these in- 
stitutions, is the Pennsylvania Hospital, founded in 1750, 
chiefly by the influence of Dr. Thomas Bond, and the cele- 
brated Franklin. It is located between Eighth street and 
Ninth, Spruce and Pine. Some of the patients defray their 
own expenses, others are received gratuitously. The ave- 
rage number of maniacs is about one hundred, whom they 
treat with kindness and attention, endeavouring to soothe, 
and solace the objects of their care. The managers of this 



62 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

institution have purchased a farm, in the vicinity of the city, 
on which they are erecting a commodious building, for the 
reception of their insane patients, designing thus, complete- 
ly to separate them from their other patients. 

The number of cases, treated in the Hospital during the 
year ending April, 1836, was 1243, of whom the greater 
part were poor people. Average number 227. 

The beautiful garden, which fronts this building, is 
adorned with a statue of William Penn. Back of the build- 
ing is the painting by West, representing Christ healing the 
Sick; a donation by that celebrated artist.* 

* Boyhood of West. — " The first display of talent, in the infant 
mind of West, was curious, and still more so, from its occurring 
where there was nothing to excite it. At this time, America contain- 
ed scarcely a specimen of the fine arts. His pencil w^as of his own 
invention, his colours were given him by an Indian, his whole process 
was a scries of invention; and painting, to him, was not the result of 
a lesson, but of an instinctive passion. 

"When only seven years of age, he was one day left with the charge 
of an infant niece, in the cradle, and used a fan to drive away the flies 
from the child. The motion of the fan made the child smile, and its 
beauty attracted the attention of West. He looked at it with a plea- 
sure he had never before experienced, and observing some paper on 
the table, together with pens, and red and black ink, he seized them, 
with agitation, and endeavoured to delineate a portrait, although, at 
that time, he had never seen an engraving or a picture. Hearing the 
approach of his mother and sister, he endeavoured to conceal what he 
had been doing, but Mrs. West observing his confusion, asked what 
he had been about, and insisted on seeing the paper. He obeyed; 
entreating her not to be angry. His mother, after looking some 
time at the drawing, with evident pleasure, said to the daughter, ' 1 
declare he has made a likeness of little Sally,' and kissed him with 
much fondness and affection. This encouraged him to say, that if it 
would give her any pleasure, he would make a drawing of the flowers, 
which she held in her hand, for his genius was awakened, and he felt 
that he could imitate any thing, which pleased his sight. In afterlife, 
he used to say, ' My mother's kiss made me a painter.' 

"Young West used pen and ink for his drawings, until pdncils were 
described to him, when he found a substitute in the tapering fur of a 
cats tail. In the following year, his cousin sent him a box of colours 
and pencils, with several pieces of canvass prepared for the easel, and 
six engravings. The box was received with delight, and West now 
found all his wants supplied. He rose at the dawn of the following 
day, and carried the box to the garret, where he spread the canvass, 
prepared his pallet, and began to imitate the figures in the en- 
graving. Enchanted with the art, he forgot his school hours, and 
joined the family at dinner without mentioning the employment in 
which he had been engaged. In the afternoon, he again entered the 
garret, and for several successive days, pursued the same course. 



PHILADELPHIA COUNTY. 63 

In the county, are several associations for the support of 
the poor. The most prominent of these is the corporation 
of " The Guardians, for the Relief and Employment of the 
Poor, of the City of Philadelphia, the District of South- 
wark, and the Townships of the Northern Liberties and 
Penn." 

This corporation has recently erected a new Almshouse, 
west of the Schuylkill, located on a tract of land including 
nearly 200 acres. The cost of this immense building was 
about $850,000. Here, the paupers, who are able to work, 
find employment, and thus, in part, defray the enormous ex- 
pense incurrred by their support. The Children's isylum, 
a department of this Institution, formerly situated in South- 
ward, is now embraced in the Almshouse. 

From the late statement, it appears that the 

Number of paupers, admitted and re-admitted into the 
Almshouse, in 1836, was 

American Paupers, 1555 

Foreign Paupers, 1266 



Total, 2821 

About 6 per cent, are children. 

Comparative number reduced to pauperism by intem- 
perance, about 75 per cent, of the adults. 

Population of the Almshouse, January 28, 1837. 

Men, 921 

Women, 128 

Girls, 40 

Boys, . 43 



Total, 1132 

Poor Tax for 1836, $133,253. 
For the moral and religious instruction of the paupers, 

*'■ Mrs. West, suspecting that the box had occasioned his neglect of 
school, went into the garret, and found him drawing a picture. But 
a sight of the performance appeased her anger, and enkindled her de- 
light. Seeing, not merely a copy, but a composition from the two en- 
gravings, she kissed him with a transport of affection, and promised to 
intercede with his father to pardon his absence from school. This 
piece, finished in his eighth year, was exhibited 67 years afterwards, 
in the same room with Christ rejected, and the artist declared, that 
there were inventive touches in his first juvenile performance, which 
all his subsequent experience had not been able to surpass." 



64 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

there is preaching on the Sabbath, visiting by pious peo- 
ple among the wards, during the week, and Bibles and Tes- 
taments in each room. In the children's department, there 
is a regular school, in which they are religiously instructed. 

The Orphan's Asylum is an interesting institution, estab- 
lished in 1814, by a society of ladies. At an annual ex- 
pense of $4000, they support 90 or 100 children deprived 
of the protecting care of parents. Here they have preach- 
ing on the Sabbath, a Bible class, Sunday School, and regu- 
lar day schools. 

The Widow's Asylum is an institution where widows 
and single women, in reduced circumstances, find a comfort- 
able and respectable support. 

The writer of the report for 1834, says, "Visit the asy- 
lum, and you will there behold the sad reverse of fortune ! 
Those, who in youth were in affluence, and met in different 
scenes, were there ! — and the niece of a man who was fore- 
most in all acts of charity and mercy, in his day and gene- 
ration, has been an inmate for many years, and, in one 
instance, an individual, who, when her husband was living 
was a subscriber for the institution, is now a beneficiary of 
of your bounty." 

The society was originated January 3, 1817, and on the 
18th of March, of the same year, the first individual was 
enrolled. Since that period, between one and two hundred 
have been received, some have been dismissed for disobe- 
dience to the rules, or returned to their friends, and some 
have passed from this world to another. In the enjoyment 
of religious privileges, many have found a peace which the 
world could neither give nor take away, and died in hope of 
a glorious immortality. The report, for the present year, 
states that the family is now composed of 50 or 60 respect- 
able incumbents. 

The Pennsylvania Institution for the Deaf and Dumb, 
estabhshed in 1821, is located at the corner of Broad and 
Pine streets. The asylum is a fine edifice, consisting of a 
centre building, 50 feet in front, witii wings, and columns 
of granite. It is supported partly by the state, and partly 
by individual effort. 

Besides the intellectual and moral culture, bestowed on 
the pupils of this institution, they are particularly instructed 
in various branches of work, and thus become prepared to 
procure for themselves, a comfortable support in after life. 



PHILADELPHIA COUNTY. 65 

The average number of pupils is 75, who are supported at 
an annual expense of ten or eleven thousand dollars. 

The committee, who visited the asylum in 1834, remark, 
"Of this delightful institution, it is difficult to speak, or even 
to think without emotion. That a class of human beings, 
who, by the providence of God, seemed placed in a state 
but little higher than the brutes, should be raised to a condi- 
tion 'but little lower than the angels ;' that they, who in 
their original condition, had not even the idea of the being 
of a God, and seemed incapable of acquiring it, should 
become fully instructed in the knowledge of their Creator, 
and of their duties to him and to their fellow men ; that 
they, who seemedto have no other consciousness, than that 
of mere animal existence, and no other expectation, than 
the gratification of animal appetites, should be placed in a 
condition, in which they are capable of enjoying 'the bene- 
fits of knowledge and the blessings of religion ;' in which 
they have set before them 'the means of grace,' and have 
opened to them 'the hope of glory,' is a transformation 
which seems above human. Yet such is the effect of the 
instructions of this institution." 

The Asylum for Lunatics, instituted at Frankfort, founded 
in 1814, is under the direction of the Friends. For 
their skill in adapting the buildings, to the purposes for 
which they were designed, and their wisdom, humanity 
and prudence in managing the institution, they have re- 
ceived very high commendation. Their untiring eff'ort is, 
to mitigate the sufferings of the, unfortunate objects, in- 
trusted to their care. 

Wills Hospital, for the reception of the indigent blind 
and lame, is situated on the south side of Race street 
directly opposite Logan Square. Such only are admitted 
to this institution, as are deemed suscept.ble of cure, or of 
amelioration of symptoms. The hospital is 80 feet front by 
50 deep, and is sufficiently capacious for the accommoda- 
tion of 70 persons, together with the requisite attendants. 

The inmates have the privilege of religious instruction, 
and for this purpose, ministers of the gospel, of all denomi- 
nations, are invited to hold divine service in the chapel, on 
the first day of the week. 

The Institution lor the Instruction of the Blind, is situated 
in Race street, west of Logan Square. It is a large 
7 



66 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

building, and very conveniently arranged. The present 
number of pupils is 34; 19 boys, and 15 girls. 

The well known object of this institution, is to rescue 
an unfortunate class of beings, from the helplessness and 
misery, generally attendant on their condition, and enable 
them to become, not only happy, but useful members of, 
society. This is effected by cultivating their other powers, 
and thus furnishing means for physical and mental activity. 

"The experienced and able principal of the institution, 
has adopted, as the ground-work of his system of instruction, 
that introduced by the benevolent Hauy, extended by the 
experience of the several institutions on the continent of ; 
Europe. The education, while it is assimilated as far as 
possible to that of the clear-sighted, is eminently practical, 
as may be shown by an enumeration of the branches already 
successfully taught in this infant Institution. These are, a 
knowledge of the letters of the alphabet and of orthography, 
obtained through the medium of tangible letters; reading', by 
raised letters; writing upon slates, or upon paper with a lead 
pencil; arithmetic, mental as well as by the aid of tangible 
figures; knowledge of things by the touch and by sound; 
music, both vocal and instrumental, according to scientific 
principles; and handicraft employments, of which, the 
making of willow-baskets, of fringe, and of other fancy arti- 
cles, has been taught." 

Some of the other institutions of this class are the City 
Hospital, in the northwest corner of the city, designed as a 
refuge for patients in the yellow fever, three Dispensaries, 
Christ Church Hospital, for the Relief of aged females, the 
Female Society for the Relief and Employment of the Poor, 
the Saving Fund Society, the Saving Fuel Society, the Soup 
Societies, the Philadelphia Society for Alleviating the Mise- 
ries of Prisoners, etc. 

But no institution in the city or county, has a more im- 
portant and interesting object, or deserves higher praise, 
than the House of Refuge. It was established in 1828, 
for the reformation of juvenile offenders; or to be more ex- 
plicit, •' it has for its object, and promises to realise in its 
results, employment of the idle, — instruction of the igno- 
rant, — reformation of the depraved, — relief of the wretched, 
— a general diffusion of good morals, — enlargement of vir- 
tuous society, — and the universal protection of property 
md life." 



PHILADELPHIA COUNTY. 67 

The buildings are of stone, large and well adapted to the 
purposes for which they were designed; affording room for 
the accommodation of 279 delinquents. The law authorises 
the reception of offenders from all parts of the states boys 
under the age of 21, and girls under 18. The average 
^number, in the institution, during the year 1836, was 149. 
The following is a description of the employment of a single 
day. 

*' The bell, for rising, rings at a quarter before five o'clook 
in the morning. At five, the dormitories are opened, and the 
boys, after washing and combing, assemble in the hall for 
morning worship; after which, they attend school until 
seven o'clock, when they breakfast. At half past seven, 
they go to work, at which they continue till twelve, the 
hour for dinner. After dinner, they receive a lesson or lec- 
ture on some useful, moral, or scientific subject until one 
o'clock. From one till five, when they go to supper, they 
are engaged in their respective employments. If their work 
is done ^vithin the allotted time, half an hour is allowed for 
recreation. School begins at half past five, at which they 
remain till a quarter before eight, when after evening pray- 
ers, they retire to rest, and the dormitories are safely lock- 
ed." With slight variations, the occupations and duties of 
the females are the same. The Sunday Schools are con- 
ducted, by members of the committee, in a manner highly 
acceptable to the Board. Religious services are performed 
in the chapel, twice every Sabbath. The reverend clergy, 
of different denominations kindly, and gratuitously officiate 
in their turns. 

But we must not omit to mention the Union Benevolent 
Association, whose praise is inscribed on the hearts of thou- 
sands. It originated in 1831, is one of the most useful in- 
stitutions in the city, and conduces, eminently, to mitigate 
the sufferings of the poor. By its excellent system of ope- 
rations, it encourages industry, improves the moral and 
intellectual condition of the poor, regulates the charities of 
other societies, and, in a great measure, prevents imposi- 
tion, m' bile it relieves thousands, who are ready to perish. 
In accordance with its plans of operations, the city and 
suburbs, are divided into districts, these districts are subdi- 
vided in sections, and each section is placed under the 
supervision of faithful visitors. 



68 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA.- 

Institutions connected with Science, Literature and the 
Arts. 

To the honour of Philadelphia, it can be said, that she 
has manifested a deep interest in these important institu- 
tions. 'J'liis has conduced greatly to expand the minds of 
her citizens generally, and especially, to give to her me- 
chanics an uncommon elevation of character. 

The following is a list of the Libraries in Philadelphia. 

Volumes. 

1. Philadelphia Library, .... 44,800 

2. Library of the American Philosophical So- 

ciety, 10,000 

3. Library of the Pennsylvania Hospital, 7,000 

4. Library of the Academy of Natural Sciences, 6,000 

5. Library of the University of Pennsylvania, 2,000 

6. Library belonging to the Society of Students, 2,000 

7. Library of the Friends in Philadelphia, 2,700 

8. Library of the Almshouse, upwards of 3,000 

9. Library of the Law Association, upwards of 1,400 

10. Library of the Medical Society, . . 600 

11. Library of the College of Physicians, . 500 

12. Library of the College of Pharmacy, . 500 

13. Library of St. Augustine Church, upwards of 3,000 

14. Library of the German Society, . . 4,000 

15. Library of the Sunday School Union, . 1,800 

16. Library of Foreign Classical Literature and 

Sciences, ...... 2,800 

17. Library of the Philadelphia Museum, . 500 

18. Library of the Athenaeum, , . . 6,500 

19. Mercantile Library, , , ... 4,489 

20. Apprentices' Library, .... 9.000 

21. Northern Liberties Library and Reading 

Room, . . . . . . 2,500 

22. Soulhwark Library, . . . . 2,200 

23. Youth's Library in the Arcade, . . 1,500 

24. Library at the Refuge, nearly, . . 600 

25. Library of the Philadelphia Institute, . 700 

26. Spring Garden Library, . . . 1,000 

27. Library of the Franklin Institute, etc., . 1,700 



Total, nearly ' 121,650 

The most important of these institutions is the Philadel- 



PHILADELPHIA COUNTY. 09 

phia Library, founded by the exertions of that ever active 
genius, Dr. Franklin.* The building is a fine neat edifice 

* Franklin and Electricity. — Dr. Franklin was the first philoso- 
pher, who succeeded in obtaining electricity from the clouds. This 
he did, by means of a common kite, to which an iron point was affix- 
ed. To the lower end of the hempen string-, was attached a piece of 
silk cord, to prevent the electric fluid from passing off^, and wliere the 
hempen string terminated, a key was fastened, lie raised this kite, 
during a thunder storm; and on presenting his knuckle to the key, re- 
ceived a strong spark. He afterwards, used to repeat this experiment 
and collect the fluid, thus obtained, in bottles and jars. This circum- 
stance gave rise to the following anecdote. While he was at 
the English court, a lady, who was about to be presented to the 
king, noticed his exceedingly plain appearance, and inquired who he 
was. "• That, madam," answered the gentleman, on whose arm she 
was leaning, "is Benjamin Franklin, the ambassador from North 
America." "The North American ambassador, so shabbily dressed!" 
exclaimed the lady. " HushI madam," whispered tlie gentleman, " he 
is the man that bottles up thunder and lightning." 

Franklin's Toast.- — " Long after Washington's victories over the 
French and English had made his name familiar to all Europe, Dr. 
Franklin chanced to dine with the English and French ambassadors, 
when the following toasts were drank. By tlie British ambassador. 

* England — the Sun, whose bright beams enlighten and fructify the 
remotest corners of the earth.' The French ambassador, glowing 
with national pride, but too polite to dispute the previous toast, said, 

• France— the Moon, whose mild, steady, and charming rays, are the 
delight of all nations, consoling them in darkness, and making their 
dreariness beautiful.' Dr. Franklin then arose, and with his usual 
dignity and simplicity, said, 'George Washington. — the Joshua, who 
commanded the Sun and Moon to stand still, and they obeyed.' " 

Piety of Franklin. — " While the important question, of the repre- 
sentation of the states in the senate, was the subject of debate, and 
tlie states were almost equally divided upon it. Dr. Franklin moved 
that prayer should be attended in the convention every morning, and 
in support of this motion, thus addressed the senate. 

'Mr, President: — The small progress we have made, after four or 
five weeks close attention, and continual reasoning with each other, 
our diffei-ent sentiments on almost every question, is, 1 think, a mel- 
ancholy proof of the imperfection of the human understanding. We, 
indeed, seem to feel our own want of political wisdom, since we have 
been running all about in search of it. We have gone back to an- 
cient history for models of government, and examined the different 
formr. of those republics, which, having been originally formed with 
the seeds of their own dissolution, now no -longer exist; we have 
viewed modern states all around Europe, but find none of their con- 
stitutions suitable to our circumstances. In this vsituation of this as- 
eembly, groping, as it were, in darkness to find political wisdom, and 
scarcely able to distinguish it when presented to us, how has it hap- 
pened, sir, that we have not once thought of humbly applying to the 
7* 



70 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

in Fifth street, opposite the Independence Square. Over 
the front door is a statue of its celebrated founder, in mar- 
ble. This Library belongs to a company incorporated in 
1742, under the name of the "Library Company of Phila- 
delphia." All persons are allowed to read books here gra- 
tuitously, from two o'clock till sundown. 

In this library is a clock, which is said to have been the 
property of Oliver Cromwell, the protector. It was pre- 
sented to the Library Company in 1793, and it is believed 
to be the oldest chronometer in the city, being at least 174 
years old. 

The Athenaeum occupies two rooms, in a building be- 
longing to the Philosophical Society, on Independence 
Square. It was established in 1814, and contains a valua- 
ble collection of books of reference, with maps and charts, 
numerous periodicals from Europe and America, etc. 

One of the most valuable institutions of this kind, is the 
Apprentices' Library, founded in 1821. The object is, by 



Father of Light to illuminate our understandings? In the begin- 
ning of our contest v»^ith Great Britain, when we were sensible of 
danger, we had daily prayers in this room for divine protection. Our 
prayers, sir, were heard, and they were graciously answered. 

'All of us, who were engaged in the struggle, must have observed 
frequent instances of a superintending Providence in our favour. To 
that kind Providence, we owe this happy opportunity of consulting in 
peace, the means of establishing our future national felicity. And 
have we now forgotten that powerful friend, or do we imagine we no 
longer need his assistance? I have lived, sir, a long time, and the 
the longer I live, the more convincing proofs do I see of this truth, 
THAT God governs in the affairs of men. And if a sparrow cannot 
fall to the ground without his notice, is it probable that an empire 
can rise without his aid? We have been assured, sir, in the sacred 
writings, that, 'Except the Lord build the house, they labour in vain 
that build it.' I firmly believe this; and I also believe, that without his 
concurring aid, we shall succeed in this political building, no better 
than the builders of Babel. We shall be divided by our little, partial, 
local interests, our projects will be confounded, and we ourselves 
shall become a reproach, and a by-word, down to future ages. 
And what is worse, mankind may hereafter, from this unfortunate 
instance, despair of establishing governments by human wisdom, and 
leave it to chance, war, or conquest. 

' I, therefore, beg leave to move, that henceforth, prayers imploring 
the assistance of Heaven, and its blessings on our deliberations, be 
held in tliis assembly every morning, before we proceed to business; 
and that one, or more of the clergy of this city, be requested to officiate 
in that service. " 



PHILADELPHIA COUNTY. 71 

the loan of books, to promote intellectual and moral culture 
among the apprentices of the city and county of Philadel- 
phia. It is regularly visited by a large number of boys, 
who mai ifest an increasing desire to gain information. 

Another institution, founded chiefly by the influence of 
Franklin, is the American Philosophical Society. This 
society has a convenient house, erected on the Independence 
Square, a Library consisting of 9000 volumes, a valuable 
collection of the objects of natural science, and has pub- 
lished ten volumes on Philosophical subjects, and three re- 
lating to the American Indians. 

The Academy of Natural Sciences is an interesting and 
useful institution, has contributed much to the dissemina- 
tion of knowledge, and has a high standing among scientific 
institutions. The library consists of works on natural his- 
tory, and is the largest collection of the kind in the Union. 
The institution possesses a large herbarium, a museum of 
shells, fossils, minerals, quadrupeds, birds, etc., scientifi- 
cally arranged, and a journal of science is published under 
its direction. 

The Philadelphia Museum was commenced by Charles 
Wilson Peale, in 1784, and is considered the best in the 
United States, particularly, in the department of natural 
science. It is located in very fine rooms, prepared for the 
purpose, in the Arcade, and contains a multitude of curiosi- 
ties from every part of the gh)be, consisting of an immense 
collection of quadrupeds, birds, reptiles, fishes, insects, 
shells, minerals, fossils, many works of art, such as imple- 
ments, dresses, arms, etc., and two hundred original por- 
traits. Among the fossils is that wonder of the world, the 
mammoth. 

The Pennsylvania Academy of The Fine Arts was com- 
menced in 1805, and has for its object, the promotion of the 
arts of painting, sculpture, architecture, and engraving. It 
has a good collection of paintings, some fine pieces of statu- 
ary and a library. The building, which the Institution 
occupies, contains a circular saloon, lighted from a dome 
at the top, and several galleries. 

The Franklin Institute, incorporated in 1804, is located 
in Seventh street, but has recently purchased the Hall, 
formerly occupied by the Grand Lodge of Masons, in Chest- 
nut street above Seventh, at an expense of $110,500. Thia 
institution deserves the highest commendation, and is emi- 



72 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

nently calculated to elevate the character, and enlighten, 
with the rays of science, the mechanics of our city. 

*' I'he object of the institution, is the promotion and en-, 
couragement of manufactures, and the mechanic and useful 
arts, by the establishment of popular lectures on the sciences 
connected with them, by the formation of a cabinet of mod- 
els and minerals, and a library; by offering premiums on 
all subjects deemed worthy of encouragement; by examin- 
ing all new inventions submitted to them, and such other 
means as they may judge expedient." 

Once in two years, articles of domestic manufacture are 
here exhibited, and continued for several successive days. 
These exhibitions are extensively visited, not only by 
members of the Institute, but by the public at large. Here 
also, scientific lectures are regularly given by men of high 
literary standing, and are attended by crowds of attentive 
hearers. 

The Philadelphia Institute, organised in 1831, is an asso- 
ciation, which merits the highest praise, and deserves en- 
couragement from all who love the prosperity of the Re- 
deemer's kingdom. 

Soon after the formation of this Institute, an agent was 
obtained at a salary of about 800 dollars, whose duty it 
was to labor, exclusively, among young jnen on the Sab- 
bath and during the week. He continued one year in the 
service of the Institute, after which the managers, not 
being able to supply his place by a suitable individual, ap- 
pointed a committee to confer with the clergymen of our 
city, and if practicable, engage them to deliver, on Sabbath 
evenings, a series of sermons, particularly adapted to young 
men. The request was readily complied with by clerical 
men of different denominations, and since that period, such- 
sermons have been regularly delivered on Sabbath evenings 
during the winter season, to large congregations of young 
men. 

The Board have opened a Reading Room, exclusively 
for the benefit of young men between the ages of fourteen 
and twenty-one. The number of volumes in the library 
is upwards of 700. On the tables are to be found daily 
and weekly papers, also monthly and quarterly periodi- 
cals. 

In addition to the means already noticed, gratuitous lec- 
tures, on scientific subjects, are delivered twice a week. 



PHILADELPHIA COUNTY. 73 



INSTITUTIONS FOR EDUCATION. 

The following list includes the principal of these institu- 
tions ; the University of Pennsylvania, the Medical Depart- 
ment of Jefferson College, numerous private Seminaries, 
incorporated Academies, Public Schools for the gratuitous 
instruction of the poor, Sunday Schools, Lyceums, etc. 

Among these, the most important is the University of 
Pennsylvania, located in Philadelphia. Until within a few 
years, this institution occupied an edifice erected at the ex- 
pense of the state, and offered to General Washington. 
Not being accepted by him, the trustees of the University 
purchased the house, and occupied it, till 1829, for collegi- 
ate purposes, when they took it down, in consequence of 
its being too small for the flourishing state of the institution, 
and erected on the spot, two neat and beautiful edifices, well 
suited to the purposes, to which they have been appropri- 
ated. 

This seminary, in its commencement, was an academy 
and charity school ; but from time to time, various altera- 
tions and enlargements were made, till, in 1791, it became 
the University of Pennsylvania. The number of students 
is about 100, professors six, one of whom superintends the 
institution under the title of Provost. This office is now 
occupied by the Rev, John Ludlow, D. D. inaugurated in 
1835. 

Connected with the University is a Medical Department, 
the first in the United States, and one of the first in the 
world. The number of students in this department is from 
four to five hundred, professors seven. 

The Medical Department of Jefierson College, was estab- 
lished in 1835. It is a flourishing seminary, has a high 
reputation, and is attended by 300 students. 

The oldest School Corporation in the state, is that, found- 
ed by William Penn, in the town and county of Philadel- 
phia. This institution continues in useful operation, having 
a number of schools, taught by well qualified teachers. 
Some of the most substantial of our citizens have been 
educated in them ; and for many years, they were consid- 
ered the best in the city. Now, they are mere elementary 
(Schools, intended to give nothing more than a plain English 
education, sufficient to qualify the pupils for business. 
There is, however, among them, one Latin School and on^ 



74 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

Mathematical School. Perhaps there are no institutions, 
for education, either in the city or county, that have done 
more good, in proportion to their means, than the schools 
of which we are speaking. Although called public schools, 
ihey are not free, except in cases where parents are unable 
to pay. 

Public Free Schools are now extensively established in 
Philadelphia. During the year 1818, a law was passed, 
providing for Public Education in the city, and part of the 
county of Philadelphia. To effect this object, several inad- 
equate laws had previously been passed, but failing in their 
application, the pnniding suitable education, for the poor of 
the ditsrict, was mostly confined to the benevolent exertions 
of individuals or societies. During this period, an indi- 
vidual, a baker, by profession, had died, and left, by will, 
a large part of his properly to the fiist incorporated society, 
for the purpose of educating poor children. Previous to 
his decease, an association of young men had been formed 
for that express object ; and hearing of the legacy, they 
took immediate measures to obtain it. They had, however, 
a competitor in the University of Pennsylvania, and so 
equally balanced were their claims, that the governor signed 
both of their applications, and told them, that the first, who 
placed his charier on record, in Philadelphia, (the governor 
then residing in Lancaster) should receive the legacy. It 
finally resulted in favor of the Young Men's Association. 
The legacy was paid to them, and they continue to employ 
that, with other funds, in carrying on a Charity School, in 
Walnut Street above Sixth. This school has, recently, 
undergone a change in its organization, being now confined 
to the higher branches of education. 

During the period referred to, a benevolent citizen, in the 
Northern Liberties, in a neighbourhood, where he had pecu- 
liar opportunities for witnessing the neglected state of the 
children, interested himself, and made efforts, which re- 
sulted in the organization, and charter of the Philadelphia 
Association of Friends, for the instruction of poor children. 
This Association, aft<;r having opened a school on a small 
scale in the city, became possessed of sufficient friends, by 
voluntary donations, to erect a large house in Pegg street. 
There its usefulness was extended, and the benevolent de- 
signs were carried on, until 1818, at which time, funds 



PHILADELPHIA COUNTY. 75 

were appropriated from the county treasury, and their efforts 
were no longer needed. 

From this period, the Public Free Schools have increased 
in public favor, and the late provisions, made by the state, 
together with the taxes assessed, have been so ample, that 
no child, within the city or incorporated district, need be 
without an education. 

During the past year, some important alterations have 
been made, in the laws, which relate to this district. The 
first laws provided for the education of the poor, merely. 
This being regarded as degrading the character of those who 
sent their children to these schools, an alteration was made, 
and they are now "Public Free Schools." The late change, 
also, removes the necessity of continuing the Lancasterian 
method of instruction, and leaves the controllers at liberty 
to adopt such plans as they think will most conduce to tha 
good of the scholars. In the exercise of this privilege the " 
controllers appointed a committee to visit the schools in the 
cities of New York and Boston, 'i'his has been done ; and 
from their observations there made, connected with their ex- 
perience in the public schools here, they believed the monito- 
rial systems not calculated for any other, than merely elemen. 
tary schools. In consequence of this conclusion, they have 
placed assistant teachers in the different schools. 

In these schools are now taught reading, writing, arith- 
metic, grammar, geography with the use of the globes and 
maps, history and some of the higher branches of mathe- 
matics. The Bible is used as a class book. All the boolcs 
are provided free of expense. In some of the schools, the 
scholars, under the direction of their teachers, have made col- 
lections of minerals, shells, etc. to which they frequently 
refer. An appropriation of $50 per annum is made, to in- 
crease the libraries, and furnish philosophical apparatus. 

Under the new law, the controllers are directed to estab- 
lish one central High School. 

During the past year, 30 Primary Schools have been lo- 
cated in different parts of the district. These are intended 
for children, attending to the first rudiments of education^ 
The average attendance is about 70. 

From a late report of the Controllers of Public Schools, 
it appears, that the present number of scholars is 9627. 

In those parts of the districts where Public Schools ar« 
ijot established, on account of the sparseness of the popu- 



116 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSVLVANIA. 

lation, the School Directors avail themselves of the best 
common schools ill the vicinity, and during the last year, 
1500 children have shared the benefit of their instructions. 
These, added to the number above stated, exhibit a total of 
11,127. 

The report sa^^s, "the schools, throughout the district, 
have been found, by the controllers, at their stated and 
casual visitations, in a satisfactory condition, and the teach- 
ers employed in them, continue to merit and receive from 
this board, and from the immediate directors of their re- 
spective sections, cordial approbation of their zeal and com- 
petency. 

In erecting their school houses, great attention has recent- 
ly been paid, by the controllers, to have them adapted to 
the purpose, and it may be said that they appear to be as 
well arranged, as any houses, for that purpose, either in 
New York or Boston. 

To one, who has at heart the best good of the communi- 
ty, it is truly interesting to visit these seminaries, to see that 
they are furnished with a very efficient, intelligent class of 
teachers; to see such multitudes of children snatched from 
the degrading, destroying influence of vice, to see them thus 
kindly, systematically, carefully, and diligently instructed; 
to see the neatness, order, propriety, and apparent attention 
which pervade the schools. 

The Infant School system was early adopted in Philadel- 
phia, and a great number of these little nurseries of piety 
and good order are now in successful operation. 

Sunday Schools are numerous, and both teachers and 
scholars engage in them with persevering interest. 

The Sunday School Union, was established in 1816. It 
embraces various denominations, and extends throughout 
the United States. 

A great number of other institutions might be named, 
some of which are very important, others more limited in 
their sphere of usefulness. 

Another means of instruction is public lectures, on a va- 
riety of subjects, delivered by gentlemen of high literary 
attainments. Private seminaries are numerous, and acade- 
mies, incorporated by the state, are established at Frankford, 
Lower Dublin, Bustleton, and Germantown. 

The number of banks, in this county, is it, the greater 
part of which are located in the cityi Besides there are a 



PHILADELPHIA COUNTY. 77 

number of saving institutions. There are nine Marine In- 
surance Companies, six Fire Insurance Companies, and 
companies for the insurance of lives and granting annuities. 
The establishments to guard against lire are numerous, and 
very efficient. 

The Water Works of Philadelphia are highly celebrated. 
They are the means of safety from fire, and conduce great- 
ly to the health, comfort and convenience of the inhabi- 
tants. They are located at Fair Mount on the River Schuyl- 
kill, a little distance from the city, and consist of an 
immense hydraulic establishment. Here the Schuylkill is 
dammed, and the water of the river, thrown into four reser- 
voirs holding upwards of 22,000,000 of gallons, from 
whence it is conveyed, by means of pipes, through the city 
and suburbs. The aggregate length of the pipes is 93| 
miles, and the cost of the works is estimated at $1,381,- 
031. The average daily supply of water is 3,122,164 
gallons, and the revenue, from the works, is $106,432, and 
is constantly increasing. 

From a late report of the trustees of the Philadelphia 
Gas Works, it appears, that there are now, about 8 miles 
of gas pipes laid in the streets, and that 268 buildings and 
165 public lamps are supplied with gas, the daily con- 
sumption being about 42 cubic feet. The report gives high 
credit to the engineer, for his brilliant success in this enter- 
prise. 

The scenery of Fair Mount is charming, consisting of 
an assemblage of beautiful objects, both natural and artifi- 
cial. 

PUBLIC BUILDINGS, GARDENS, etc. 

The buildings of Philadelphia are constructed of the 
best materials, and are remarkable for neatness, simplicity, 
and durability. The facilities for building here, are very 
great, the neighbourhood abounding in materials of the best 
kind, such as marble, other building stone, lime, and clay. 

The Swedes Church in Southwark, erected in 1700, is 
the oldest house of public worship in the city. The style 
of building is so peculiar, that it is regarded as quite a cu- 
riosity. 

Christ Church is an ancient building, said, by foreigners, 
to have the appearance of an old European church, and is 
admired for its beautiful architecture, high steeple, and fine 
8 



78 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

chime of bells. St. Stephens is a fine specimen of Gothic 
architecture. Another church of the same order, which has 
been much admired, is St. Johns, the new Catholic Church. 
The front of St, Andrews is a copy of the temple of Bac- 
chus at Teos. The interior is highly ornamented. The 
First Presbyterian Church is a Grecian structure, modelled 
after the Ionic temple at Athens. But one of the most beau- 
tiful churches in the city, is the newly erected Central 
Church, at the corner of Eighth and Cherry streets. It 
does not abound in ornament, but there is an air of neat- 
ness, comfort, and elegant simplicity, which engages the 
attention of every beholder. The front is finished in the 
Grecian Doric order, with a full columned portico, and mar- 
ble flight of steps. Adjoining the church, on the east, is a 
fine three story building. The first story is handsomely 
finished for a lecture room ; the other two are occupied as 
Sabbath School rooms. The church is lighted, principally, 
by one grand reflector from the centre of the ceiling, con- 
taining 43 lamps 

One of the most venerable buildings in the city, and 
around which cluster the most interesting associations, is 
the State House, completed in 1735. Here, the fathers of 
our country met in council, and boldly declared the free- 
dom and independence of the United States. Near the 
close of the Revolution, the steeple became so much decayed, 
th^t it was necessary to remove it. Another has been 
erected, with an illuminated dial plate to the clock, so that 
the passing traveller may tell the hour of night. The public 
oifices are located on each side of the house, extending quite 
across the north front ol the square. In front of this clus- 
ter of buildings is a beautiful avenue of Linden trees. 

The attention of the stranger is at once arrested, by the 
beauty and simplicity of the two edifices, occupied by the 
University. They are each 85 feet in front, and 112 (!eep, 
separated by grass plats, beautifully interspersed with gravel 
walks. The enclosure is a light iron railing in a free stone 
basement. 

The new Almshouse in Blockley township, consists of a 
group of buildings, four in number, each 400 feet in front, 
and three stories high. The)- are so arranged as to enclose 
a square plat of ground, used for a yard. Fronting the 
Schuylkill is a piazza of the Tuscan style, with six columns, 
five feet in diameter at the bottom, and 30 feet high. 



PHILADELPHIA COUNTY. 79 

The Arcade, on the north side of Chesnut street, is 100 
feet front, and 150 feet deep, extending to Carpenter street. 
Two avenues run through it, upon both sides of which the 
stores open. Those of tiie second story have a gallery be- 
fore them. The whole is covered by a sky light. The 
third story is supported by arches, and divided into three 
large rooms and two saloons, all occupied by the Philadel- 
phia Museum. 

The Philadelphia Markets are the most celebrated in the 
United States. The butchers' meat, poultry, butter, vege- 
tables, and fruits are the most abundant in quantity, and in 
quality of the first rate. Besides, there are a great variety 
of cakes, sweet meats, articles of domestic manufacture, and 
countless other things, here offered for sale. In Second 
street, there are two ranges of market houses, and in Market 
street, the market houses extend from the Delaware to 
Eighth street, and from Schuylkill Sixth, to Schuylkill 
Eighth, and on market daj^s, an array of loaded wagons, ex- 
tend from one market house to the other, making altogether, 
an extent of one mib and a half in length. This market 
crosses Second street, in which there is a similar display of 
loaded vehicles, uniting the two market houses in that 
street, and forming a market, of about the same length. 
Besides there are several other markets in the city. When 
taking a survey of this great market, we feel, that we are 
indeed, in a land of plenty. The bounties of Providence 
are so abundandy spread out before us, that we wonder 
how such a profusion of the necessaries, conveniences, com- 
forts and luxuries of life can be so soon collected together. 
Market days are announced, the preceding evening, by the 
chiming of bells. 

The bank edifices in Philadelphia are large, and very 
ornamental in appearance. The handsomest building in the 
city of Philadelphia, and perhaps in this country, is the 
United States Bank in Chesnut street. It is of white 
marble, with a front copied from the Parthenon at Athens. 
When first seen by a stranger, it always excites a pleasant 
emotion. The bank of Pennsylvania, another specimen of 
Grecian architecture, is wholly composed of white marble. 
The Girard Bank is a beautiful structure of the Corinthian 
order, having a marble front with a portico of six marble 
columns. The Bank of Philadelphia has been taken down, 
and a new building is now in progress, at the southwest 
corner of Fourth street and Chesnut, 



80 



GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 




Bank of the United States. 



The Merchants' Exchange is a handsome marble struc- 
ture at the northwest corner of Wahiut street and Third. 
The front, on Dock street, is circular, and the view of the 
buihhng is very imposing, particularly by moonlight. 

The Mint is a fine edifice, of the Ionic order, situated in 
Chesnut street, near Broad. 

There are in the city, three theatres, and one in the 
Northern Liberties. Those in the city are large handsome 
buildings. 

The Schuylkill Arsenal is situated below the city, on the 
east bank of the Schuylkill river. It consists of four large 
store houses, a house for the commanding officer, and a 
powder magazine. Here are deposited clothing, camp 
equipage, etc. 

The Delaware Arsenal is one of the most beautiful military 
stations in the Union. It is located at the junction of the 
Frankford creek and Delaware river, and consists of six 
large stone buildings with work shops, etc. Here are de- 
posited small arms, nitre, etc. 

The Marine Hospital is a noble and splendid edifice, 
delightfully situated on the east side of the Schuylkill, not 
far from the arsenal, aflfording a fine view of the river 
and adjoining country. This is one of the largest and 
handsomest structures in the neighbourhood of Philadel- 
phia. 

The navy yard is on the Delaware river in the District of 
Southwark. * On the stocks here, is a large three decker* 



PHILADELPHIA COUNTY. §1 

covered with a framed building. It is called the mammoth 
ship, will require 1500 men to. manage it, and it is said to 
be the largest vessel in the world. 

The city of Philadelphia, is situated between the Dela* 
ware and Schuylkill, six miles above their confluence* 
With an almost uninterrupted level, the city and suburbs ex* 
tend along the banks of the Delaware for three miles. In 
size, it is the second city in the Union, and is, probably, 
the most regular city in the world. The streets intersect 
each other at right angles, and are from 50 to 113 feet in 
width. Its location combines many advantages. It fronts 
on two navigable rivers, has an excellent harbour, a fine salu- 
brious atmosphere, and the vicinity abounds in the best 
materials for building. The cleanliness of the city, the 
neat and commodious houses, the ricli supply of whatever 
conduces to the comfort and convenience of man, together 
with its superior literary and religious privileges, conspire to 
render it a desirable place of residence. 

The city officers are a mayor, recorder, select and com- 
mon councils, and fifteen aldennen. The present popula 
tion of the city and suburbs is about 200,000. 

Philadelphia, you will recollect, was laid out by William 
Penn ; and to him we are indebted for most of the public 
squares, with which the city is adorned, and which contri- 
bute so much to the health and comfort of the inhabitants. 
They are six in number. — Penn Square, Franklin Square, 
Independence Square, Washington Square, Logan Square, 
and Rittenhouse Square. These squares are highly im- 
proved, and are delightful promenades. 

Washington Square, now so beautiful, was, only about 
20 years ago, a Potter's Field, inclosed with a post and rail 
fence. During holidays it was customary for slaves, of 
both sexes, to assemble here in great numbers, as many as 
a thousand at a time. They would employ themselves in 
dancing, after the manner of the Africans, singing and 
speaking in their own native dialect; thus indulging in 
amusements over the sleeping dust below. They have 
been seen going to the graves of their friends, early in the 
morning, and there leaving, for them, victuals and rum. 

During the Revolutionary War, this place was rendered 

awful, by becoming the receptacle of soldiers, who died of 

the yellow fever. Pits, of 20 or 30 feet in depth, were 

dug, in which coffins were piled one above another until 

8* 



■%1. 

S9 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

filled. Its final scene as a burying ground, took place in 
the year 1793, since which time, the city councils have 
been induced to close it against further use as a cemetery. 
As a public square it was commenced in 1815, and now 
contains 60 or 70 varieties of trees mostly of native growth. 

It is difficult to realize that, in this elegant and beautiful 
city, only about 60 years ago, was to be seen a large body 
of thrifty and tall forest trees. Old George Warner, who 
died in 1810, spake with lively recollections, of the state of 
the woods out High Street, saying that they were of great 
growth, especially from beyond Penn Square to the then 
romantic and picturesque banks of the Schuylkill.* 

The city and suburbs contain a number of extensive and 
eleo^ant gardens, beautiful in appearance, and especially 
interesting and useful to the botanist. There are large green 
houses, filled with the richest variety of luxuriant exotics, 
grounds neatly laid out, covered with fruits and flowers, 
interspersed with gravel walks, plats of grass, fountains of 
water, etc. 

The county contains two prisons, anew one at Moya- 
mensing, and the Eastern Penitentiary, which has been 
described. The prison at Moyamensing, consists of a jail 
and a separate building for debtors and untried prisoners; 
both of stone, neat and handsome. 

There are also several large manufactories of locomotive 
steam engines, much celebrated for the excellence of their 
workmanship. One of these factories is 180 feet front, by 
about 396 feet deep. At one of them a locomotive engine 
has been made, capable of running up and down the inclined 
plane, on the Columbia Railroad, without any assistance 
from the stationary engine. 

The mill saws, of Philadelphia, are generally preferred 
to those imported. 

In Watson's Annals we find it stated, that Philadelphia 
has long been justly renowned for her superior excellence 
and elegance in ship building. None of the colonies have 
equalled her ; and perhaps, no place in the world has sur- 
passed her, in skill and science in this business. 

In Kensington, there is a screw dock, erected by indivi- 
dual enterprise, on which the largest sized vessels can be 
raised out of the water with their cargoes in them. This is 

Ijjjj * Annals of Philadelphia. 



PHILADELPHIA COUNTY. 



M 



very useful in case of repairs being necessary before putting 
out to sea. 

As a manufacturing place, the city and county of Phila- 
delphia, is highly distinguished. Her thousands of fabrics, 
which minister to the necessities, conveniences, and com- 
fort of her citizens, we will not attempt to enumerate. 
The curiosity of the stranger would be particularly attracted 
by the shot towers, for the manufacture of shot, the por- 
celain factory, the extensive floor cloth and carpet manufac- 
tory, and the several glass works. The shot tower, near 
the Schuylkill, is of a square form, 33 feet in diameter at 
the base, 22 at the summit, and has an elevation of 166 
feet. 

The porcelain factory is now discontinued. This is the 
only one of the kind in the United States. There are roy- 
al manufactories of this kind in France and Germany, 
which shows that the business is very important, and ought, 
therefore, to be sustained. It is also a very expensive es- 
tablishment, and much praise is due to the indefatigable 
Tucker, who undertook it here. 

In our account of Philadelphia, we ought, probably, to 
notice the liberal donations of the late Stephen Girard. 
This gendeman was a native of Bordeaux, and in the oc- 
cupation of a sailor. Commenced his career without money. 
Ever successful in business, he acquired a vast property, 
which at his death, probably amounted to 15,000,000. By 
far the greater part of this immense fortune, he bequeathed 
to his favourite city, Philadelphia. He directed, that 
$2,000,000, or more, should be appropriated to the erection 
and support of a college in Penn township, for the education 
of American orphans.* 

* Revolutionary Anecdotes. — " When the British army held pos- 
session of Philadelphia, General Howe's head quarters were in Second 
street, the fourth door below Spruce, in a house occupied by General 
Cadwallader. Directly opposite, resided William and Lydia Darrah, 
members of the society of Friends. A superior officer of the British 
army, believed to be the adjutant-general, fixed upon one of their cham- 
bers for private conferenee, and two of the officers frequently met 
there, with fire and candles, in close consultation. About the 2d of 
December, the adjutant-general told Lydia, that they would be in the 
room at 7 o'clock, and remain there till late; and they wished the 
family to retire early to bed: adding, that when they were going away, 
they would call her to let them out, and extinguish the fire and can- 
dlee. She accordingly sent all the family to bed; but as the oificer 



84 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

The towns, in this county, next in importance to Phila- 
delphia, are Gerinantown, Frankford, and Manayunk. Ger- 
mantown is situated six miles north of Philadelphia, and 
consists of a single street, live miles in length. It is a very 

had been so particular, her curiosity was excited; she took off her 
shoes, put her ear to the key hole of" the conclave, and overheard an 
order read for all the British troops to march out late in the evening 
of the 4th, and attack the American army, then encamped at White- 
marsh. 

"On hearing this, she returned to her chamber, and lay down. Soon 
after, the officer knocked at the door, and she arose only at the tl)ird 
summons, feigning herself asleep. Her mind was so much agitated 
by what she had heard, that slie could neither eat nor sleep, suppos- 
ing it to be in her power to save the hves of thousands of her tellow 
countrymen, but not knowing how to convey the information to Gene- 
ral Washington, nor during to confide it to her husband. The time 
left, however, was short. She quickly determined to make her way, 
as soon as possible, to the American outposts. 

" She informed her family, that as slie was in want of flour, she 
would go to Frankford for some. Her husband insisted that she should 
take her servant-maid with her; but to his surprise, she positively re- 
fused. She got access to General Howe, and solicited, what he readily 
granted, a puss through the British troops on the line. Leaving her 
bag at the mill, she hastened toward the American lines, and encoun- 
tered, on her way, an American lieutenant, colonel of the light horse, 
who, with some of his men, was on tlie lookout for information. He 
knew her, and inquired where she was goi»)g. She answered in quest 
of her son, an officer in the American army, and prayed him to alight 
and walk with her. He did so, ordering his troops to keep in sight. 
To him she disclosed her secret, after having obtained from him a 
solemn promise, that he would not betray her individually, as her life 
might be at stake with the British, 

" He conducted her to a house near at hand, ordered some refresh- 
ment for her, and hastened to head quarters, to acquaint General Wash- 
ington with what he had heard. Washington, of course, made all 
necessary preparations for baffling the meditated surprise. Lydia re- 
turned home with the flour, sat up alone to watch the movements bf 
the British troops, heard their footsteps, as they moved out of the city, 
but when they returned, in a few days after, she did not dare to ask a 
question, though anxious to learn the event. The next morning, th« 
adjutant-general came in, and requested her to walk up into his room, 
as he wished to put some questions to her. She followed him in terror, 
and when, with an air of mystery, he requested her to be seated, she 
was sure she was either suspected or betrayed. 

"He inquired, earnestly, whether any of her family was up the last 
night, when he and the other officers met. She told him they all re- 
tired at eight o'clock. He observed, ' I know you were asleep, for I 
knocked at your chamber door three times, before you heard me. I 
am entirely at a loss to imagine who gave General Washington the 
information of our intended attack, unless the walls of the house could 



PHILADELPHIA COUNTY. 85 

flourishing village, contains seven or eight hundred houses, 
churches belonging to different denominations of Christians, 
and is well supplied with good schools, the most celebrated 
of which are the Germantown academy, and the Mount 
Airy academy. The latter is delightfully located, the build- 
ing is large and convenient, and the system of instruction, 
here pursued, prepares the pupils for the military academy 
at West Point. 

Germantown is a place of frequent resort, by the citizens 
of Philadelphia; and so great is the iiltercourse, that it gives 
constant employment to several stages. Since the railroad 
has been completed, this intercourse has greatly increased, 
and a gentleman may live in Germantown, and attend to 
business in Philadelphia.* 

Manayunk, seven miles from Philadelphia, is situated on 
the Schuylkill river and Flat Rock Canal. So great are the 
advantages, derived from the water power of this canal, 
that is has given rise to this great manufacturing village, 
which has had a most rapid growth. The first mill was 
erected in 1819; now there are 20. 

On the west, the bank of the Schuylkill is steep and 
rocky, bounded by high and rugged hills. On the east, 
the hills recede from the river, leaving a flat bottom of about 
two miles in length, varying in breadth from one to two 
hundred feet. On this plain the town is located, and at the 
northern extremity, is Flat Rock Dam, so called from a 

speak. When we arrived near Whitemarsh, we found all the troops 
ready to receive us, and we have marched back like a pack of fools.' 

" A coloured man is now living in Philadelphia, who was one of 
the first sailors the United States ever had. He was captured by the 
British, and confined on board the Jersey Prison Ship; where, owing 
to the horrid state of the ship, and the badness of their provisions, 
many a noble hearted American paid the debt of nature. When it 
came to the black boy's turn to be discharged, he, at the risk of his 
own life, put an American boy into his chest, and brought him safely 
on shore, while the officers of the day were at duty on deck. Had 
an accident betrayed him, he might soon have paid the forfeit of his 
life. But he escaped with his prize, who is, also, now living near 
Philadelphia, filling a responsible situation under government. 

The name of the coloured man is James Forten, a sailmaker, who 
has risen, by his industry and integrity, to wealth and respectability." 

* It will be recollected, that Germantown was a scene of battle, 
during the Revolutionary War. Here our fiarefathers fought, and 
Wed, and died, to purchase for us the blessings of liberty. 



86 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

quantity of flat rock below. This darn is connected with 
the pool at Fair Mount, by a canal, which follows the wind- 
ings of the river. 

The town contains five churches, and probably, about 
500 dwellings, many of which are built with much taste 
and elegance. The level bank of the river proving too 
limited, in its extent, for the increasing number of dwellings, 
some of the finest houses have been erected on the summit 
of the adjoining hill. So elevated is their situation, that 
one is almost ready to think, that a winter's blast would 
precipitate them into the river. Here are two bridges over 
the Schuylkill; one with a single arch just below the dam, 
and another in the centre of the town. 

Two or three other items will close our account of Phila- 
delphia county. The township of Byberry is deserving of 
notice, on account of its manufacture of corn brooms. Not 
less than 60,000 are here annually fabricated and sent to 
market. Here also, is a cabinet, and a valuable library, 
formed by a society of Friends. An article in the constitu- 
tion precludes tlie admission of all atheistical and deistical 
books, all novels, plays and romances, and other books sup- 
posed to have a tendency to corrupt the morals. The li- 
brary contains about eight hundred volumes. To the praise 
of this sect of Christians, we will slate, that from their 
libraries, generally, are excluded all books, supposed to have 
an injurious tendency.* 

When this township was first visited by Europeans, it 
was covered, not with timber, but with saplings, under- 
brush, and coarse grass. From this circumstance, it was 

* The first settlers of this township had many difficulties to en- 
counter, but the Indians treated them kindly, furnished them with 
such articles of provisions as they could spare, and taught them how 
to raise corn, beans, and pumpkins. 

The first wheat sown in this region, was brought from a distance 
of 20 or 30 miles, by two men on their shoulders. One of these men, 
when he went for the wheat, left at home his wife, child, and a small 
boy, with provisions, as he thought, sufficient for them, until his re- 
turn. But he was detained longer than he expected, and the cow, on 
which the family depended principally for support, got into the 
swamp and died. The poor woman, reduced to great distress, con- 
eluded to take her children and go to an Indian settlement not far 
distant, and apply for assistance. The Indians treated her with much 
hospitality, gave her and her children victuals to eat, and taking off 
the little boy's trowsers, filled thera with corn, which they carried home. 



PHILADELPHIA COUNTY. 87 

supposed to have been cultivated by the aborigines, who 
were probably very numerous in this region. Stone hatch- 
ets, darts made of flint, and other curious articles of Indian 
fabrication are frequently found here. 




Tlie Eastern Penitentiary. 

We may farther state, that a number of interesting estab- 
lishments, belonging to the city, are located in Spring Gar- 
den, namely, Fair Mount Water Works, Eastern Peniten- 
tiary, (a description of which may be found in Letter XI. 
page 45,) the House of Refuge, the City Hospital, the ex- 
tensive floor cloth manufactory, the great single arched 
bridge over the Schuylkill, and many manufactories for 
cotton, woollen, sawing marble by steam, etc. 

Into how many counties is the state of Pennsylvania divided ? 
To what number of officers, is the management of the county affair* 
entrusted ? 

What is the business of these officers ? 

How are the counties divided ? 

Into what three great sections is the state divided ? 

What part of the state does Eastern Pennsylvania include ? 

What is the principal mineral, found in Eastern Pennsylvania ? 

To what geological formation does Eastern Pennsylvania belong ? 

What part of the state does Central Pennsylvania include ? 

Face of the country in Central Pennsylvania ? Minerals ? 

To what geological formation does Central Pennsylvania belong ? 

What part of the state does Western Pennsylvania include? 

To what geological formation does Western Pennsylvania belong^? 



88 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

What minerals are found in Western Pennsylvania ? 

Name the counties in Eastern Pennsylvania ? 

In what part of the state is Philadelphia county? How bounded ? 

What are the principal rivers ? In what part of the county is Phila- 
delphia ? In what direction is Germantown from Philadelphia ? 
Richmond ? Frankford ? Holmesburg, etc.? 

When was Philadelphia county erected ? 

What is the geological formation of this county ? 

Two principal rivers in Philadelphia county ? 

Mention six items relating to John Fitch, contained in the note ? 

What account can you give of the shores of the Delaware ? 

What improvement has been made on the marsh, in the vicinity of 
Darby creek ? 

What is the soil of this county ? 

Where does the Schuylkill unite with the Delaware ? 

What account can you give of the shores of the Schuylkill above 
Manayunk ? 

By what artificial curiosities is the attention attracted near Manay- 
unk? Utility of the dams which cross the Schuylkill ? What num- 
ber of bridges cross the Schuylkill in this county? 

What was the cost of the permanent bridge ? 

How long since its completion ? Length ? Breadth ? 

In what depth of water is the western pier sunk ? 

How many feet of timber are employed in the erection of the dam 
for this pier ? Tons of masonry ? 

By what means are the piers strengthened ? 

What remarkable fact is stated respecting the bridge at Fair 
Mount ? 

What are some of the most numerous religious sects in this 
county ? 

Number of places for public worship, in the city and surburbs of 
Philadelphia ? 

What number of churches have the Africans, in the city and lib- 
erties ? 

What benevolent institutions are very numerous in the city and 
county ? 

Can you mention some of these institutions ? 

What institutions are the glory of Philadelphia? 

When was the Pennsylvania Hospital founded ? By whose exer- 
tions, chiefly ? 

How many patients were treated in tho hospital in 1836 ? 

With what is the garden, in front of the hospital adorned ? What, 
painting back of the hospital ? 

What do you recollect about the boyhood of West, contained in the 
note ? . 

For what object have several societies, in the county, been formed ? 
Which is the most important ? 

Population of the Almshouse January 28, 1837 ? 

What proportion are children ? 

What proportion of adults have been reduced to pauperism by in- 
temperance ? 

Where is the new Almshouse located ? 



PHILADELPHIA COUNTY. 89 

When was the Orphan Asylum instituted ? 

When was the Philadelphia Institution for the Deaf and Dumb esta- 
blished ? 

What instruction do the pupils of the Deaf and Dumb Institution 
receive ? 

What Asylum is instituted at Frankford ? 

For what have the managers of the Asylum at Frankford been 
commended ? 

Gan you name some other institutions of a similar kind ? 

Which institution merits the highest praise ? 

For what object was the House of Refuge established ? When ? 

What does the law authorise relative to the reception of members? 

Can you give a description of the employment of a single day at 
the House of Refuge ? 

Mention four items relating to Will's Hospital ? The Institution 
for the Blind ? 

What account can you give of the Union Benevolent Society ? 

Can you mention some of the libraries in Philadelphia ? Aggre- 
gate number of volumes ? 

Which library is most important ? Number of volumes ? 

What do you recollect about a clock in the Philadelphia Library ? 

To whom are we indebted for the institution of the Philadelphia 
Library ? 

What number of volumes does this library contain ? 

Where is this library located ? 

What account can you give of Franklin and Electricity, as con- 
tained in the note ? Franklin's Toast ? Franklin's Piety ? 

What rooms does the Athenaeum occupy ? 

What collections does the Athenaeum contain ? 

What is the design of the Apprentices' Library ? 

How large a library has the Philosophical Society ? 

What volumes has the Philosophical Society published ? 

What account can you give of the Academy of Natural Sciences ? 

What distinguished museum is there in Philadelphia? 

How does this museum compare with other museums in the Uni- 
te d States ? 

What are^ome of the curiosities which this museum contains ? 

In what year was the Franklin Institute incorporated ? 

What is said in commendation of this Institute ? 

Object of the Franklin Institute ? 

What lectures are given here ? 

What do you recollect about the Philadelphia Institute ? 

What are the principal Institutions for Education ? 

What University is located in Philadelphia t 

What building was formerly occupied by this University ? 

When were the buildings erected, which are now occupied by the 
University of Pennsylvania ? 

Number of Professors in this University ? Students ? 

What title has the chief officer ? 

What college is connected with this University ? 

What is said in commendation of the Medical depa-rtment, connect- 
9 



90 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

ed with the Pennsylvania University ? What number of students in 
this department ? 

What number of students in the Medical Department of Jefferson 
College ? 

Which is the oldest school corporation in the state ? 

What schools are now extensively established in Philadelphia ? 

In what year was a law passed, providing for public educationin 
the city and part of the county of Philadelphia ? 

What branches are taught in the Public Free Schools in Philadel- 
phia ? 

Number of scholars ? Number of Primary Schools ? 

When was the Sunday School Union established ? 

What other means of instruction can you mention ? 

What academies have been incorporated ? 

What number of Banks in Philadelphia county ? 

What is remarked of the establishments to guard against fire ? 

What advantages result from the Water Works of Philadelphia ? 
Where located ? Of what do they consist ? Into what is the water 
thrown ? 

By what means is the water conducted from the reservoirs through 
the city? Agy egutu length of the pipes? Cost of the Water 
Works ? 

O. what objects does the scenery of Fair Mount consist? 

Aggregate length of gas pipes laid in the streets of Philadelphia ? 
Number of buildings supplied with gas ? Public lamps? 

For what are the public buildings of Philadelphia remarkable ? 

What materials for building are found in the vicinity of Philadel- 
phia ? 

Which is the oldest house of public worship in the city ? 

On what account is Christ Church admired ? 

What churches can you mention of the Gothic order ? 

From what temple was the front of St. Andrews copied ? 

Which church is mentioned, as being one of the most beautiful in 
the city ? 

How is the Central church lighted ? 

In what year was the Stale House erected ? 

What do you recollect about the State House clock ? 

What important declaration was made in the State House ? 

How are the public offices situated ? 

What trees are in front of the state house, and public offices ? 

What do you recollect about the edifices, occupied by the Universi- 
ty of Pennsylvania ? 

Of how many buildings does the new Almshouse consist? 'How 
arranged ? Of what style is the portico ? . 

Where is the Arcade situated ? 

What number of avenues run through the Arcade? 

How is the third story of the Arcade supported ? 

By what is it occupied ? 

What articles are offered for sale in the Philadelphia market ? 

What account can you give of the market in Philadelphia ? 

How do we feel, when taking a survey of these markets ? 

What is said of the bank edifices of Philadelphia ? Of the United 



PHILADELPHIA COUNTY. 91 

;States Bank? Bank of Pennsylvania ? The Girard Bank? The 
Mint? 

How many theatres in Philadelphia ? 

Where is the Schuylkill Arsenal situated? Of what does it consist? 
What are here deposited ? 

What is one of the most beautiful military stations in the Union ? 
Where located ? Of what does it consist ? What are deposited here? 

How is the Marine Hospital situated ? What is remarked of this 
building ? 

How is Philadelphia situated ? 

Comparative size ? 

How do the streets intersect each other ? 

How wide are they ? 

What advantages does the location of Philadelphia combine ? 

What circumstances conspire to render Philadelphia desirable as a 
place of residence ? 

Present population of Philadelphia city and suburbs ? 

City officers ? Population of the city and suburbs ? 

To whom are we indebted for the public squares in Philadelphia ? 
How many are there ? 

What can you tell about the gardens of Philadelphia ? 

How many prisons in Philadelphia county ? 

What account can you give of the Moyamensing prison ? 

What is said of Philadelphia as a manufacturing place ? 

What are some of the manufactories, by which the curiosity of 
stranger may be excited ? 

What was the native place of Stephen Girard ? 

In what occupation did he commence his career ? Amount of his 
property at his death ? 

To what city did he bequeath the greater part of his immense for- 
tune? 

To what purpose did he direct that $2,000,000 or more should be 
appropriated ? 

Tell the story of Lydia Darrah, contained in the note; — of the co- 
loured man. 

How is Germantown situated ? 

Of how many streets does the town consist? 

What are the most celebrated schools in Germantown? 

What fact can you mention, which proves that there is much inter- 
course between Germantown and Philadelphia ? 

What event took place at Germantownj during the Revolutionary 
War? 

How is Manayunk situated ? 

When was the first mill erected at Manayunk ? Preseiit number? 

Where is Flat Rock dam ? 

What number of churches and dwellings does Manayunk contain ? 

How are some of the best houses situated ? 

What bridges have been erected at Manayunk? 

What number of corn brooms are annually sent to market from the 
township of Byberry? 

By what association was a public libjrarj in this township founded? 



93 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

What is prohibited by an article of this association? 
IBy whom was this township supposed to have been formerly culti- 
vated? 

What evidence that it was originally cultivated by the aborigines ? 
Mention a few facts in relation to the first settlers of this county? 
What interesting establishments are located in Spring Garden? 

BUCKS COUNTY. 

This was one of the three counties, erected by William 
Penn soon after the settlement of the colony commenced. 
The southern and interior parts were settled mostly by 
English and Welsh Friends; the northern, by Germans, 
whose descendants speak the German language, and retain 
many of the German habits and customs. 

The surface is much diversified, and the soil, though 
various, is generally good. The limestone region, and al- 
luvial flats on the Delaware, produce very fine crops of 
wheat, other kinds of grain, and grass, of a superior quality. 

In this county there is a valuable mine of plumbago, or 
what is improperly called black lead, which is very pro- 
ductive. It is on the summit of a hill in Southampton town- 
ship, and has been perforated to the depth of 100 feet. By 
the aid of two pumps, one horse, and six workmen, 25,000 
dollars worth has been raised within the space of three 
years. The plumbago of this mnie is said to be of a supe- 
rior quality, and the best yet discovered, excepting that of 
one mine in England. It is sold for from fifteen, to forty- 
five cents per pound. 

The county is watered, principally, by the Delaware and 
some of its tributaries. The Delaware washes the eastern 
and southern coast, the Neshamony runs through the south- 
ern interior, and joins the Delaware some distance below 
Bristol. 

The State Canal follows the windings of the river from 
Easton to Bristol, where it communicates with the Dela- 
ware, by a large and beautiful basin. 

Doylestown is the seat of justice. It has a salubrious 
atmosphere, and is delightfully situated on an elevated spot, 
which affords an extensive view of a well cultivated and 
highly productive country. It contains a court house, a 
large stone prison, a bank, about 100 dwellings, an acade- 



BUCKS cotJNirY. m 

my, a Presbyterian church, a Friends meeting house, an 
academy of natural sciences, and an agricultural society. 
Four weekly newspapers are printed here, two in the Ger- 
man language. The court house is a fine building, sur- 
rounded by a park, and surmounted by a cupola, command- 
ing an extensive view of a well cultivated and fertile 
country. 

Newtown, twelve miles from Do5^1estown, is famed for 
the manufacture of carriages. Attleborough is a very invi- 
ting, level spot, healthy, and pleasant. It is situated on a 
high and rich table land, commanding a fine view of the 
surrounding country. The vicinity is in a high state of 
cultivation, and very productive. Within a mile of the 
town, are two chalybeate springs. Bristol is beautifully 
situated on the Delaware, nearly opposite Burlington. It 
is a pleasant place, and the resort of much genteel company 
in the summer. A Collegiate Institution was established 
near this place, in 1833, but is now discontinued. 

Returning down the river from Bristol, we pass Penns- 
burg Place, the residence of William Penn. In its lofty 
halls he often gave audience to the princes of the land, 
havinghere conducted no less than 19 treaties vvith the In- 
dians. The mansion house is said to have been a stately 
pile, built of materials brought from England. 

In the township of Warwick, there is a poorhouse, on a 
large and productive farm. The building is capacious, af- 
fording accommodation for 200 persons. The situation is 
admirable for health and beauty. 

The county contains a great number of fine bridges. 
The most noted of which are those across the Delaware, 
at New Hope, Centreville, and Taylorsville. The Tren- 
ton bridge is 1100 feet in length, and 36 in width. 

Considerable attention is paid to the subject of education 
in this county. Free schools have been established in seve- 
ral townships, and in Doylestown there is an academy. 

The inhabitants are chiefly employed in the business of 
agriculture; and the farms are highly improved, and very 
productive. There are, however, various manufacturing 
establishments, in different parts of the county, and sonae 
are very extensive. Paper and buttons are made at Morris- 
ville, and there are large woollen factories in different places. 

The county contains three banks, one at Doylestown, 
one at Bristol, and one at Hulmeville. 

9* 



94 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

In this county is found an interesting and very spacious 
cave. It is in Durham township, about 50 miles north of 
Philadelphia. The entrance, into this subterraneous grotto, 
is about 100 yards west of the Delaware river. The height 
of the eminence, enclosing the cavity, is between 200 and 
250 feet above the level of the adjoining land. From the 
pathway of the entrance to the top of the rock above, is up- 
wards of 40 feet, yet not more than two or three persons 
can enter abreast; the mouth being partly obstructed by a 
ledge of rocks. 

The cave is divided into three grand apartments, the 
passage from one to the other being over steep and promi- 
nent rocks. Descending about 30 feet, we entered the first 
apartment; but on account of the irregularities of the vault, 
it is difficult to form a just estimate of its dimensions. The 
following statements may, however, enable us to form some 
idea of its extent. 

Length Average width Height 

First apartment, 90 feet 30 20 

Second apartment, 96 40 20 

Third apartment, 93 16 ^ 17 

The cave, in some places is covered with a white plaster, 
somewhat crystallized, which, by the assistance of a ham- 
mer, can be easily severed from the rock to which it ad- 
heres. Other parts of the cave are covered with another 
kind of incrustation, of a dark colour, which has the ap- 
pearance of moss upon a tree, but is as hard as the rOck 
itself. 

At the bottom is a basin of excellent water, which obvi- 
ously communicates with the waters of the river and creek. 

In what part of the state is Bucks county ? 

How bounded ? What are the principal rivers? What river forms 
the eastern and southern boundary? In what part of the county is 
Doylestown ? In what direction is Bristol from Doylestown ? New- 
town ? New Hope? Morrisville ? etc. 

By whom were the southern and interior parts of this county origi- 
nally settled? 

What is said of the Germans in the northern part of the county? 

What is the soil? 

What mine has for some years been wrought in the county? 

What is the quality of the plumbago found here? 

What canal follows the Delaware river in this county? 

How is Doylestown situated? 

What buildings does it contain? What society? 



CHESTER COUNTY. 95 

What number of newspapers are printed at Doylestown? 

For what is Newtown distinguished ? 

How is Attleboro situated ? Bristol ? 

What do you recollect about Pennsburg Place? 

What springs in the vicinity of Attleboro? 

What springs in Bristol ? 

In what township is the poorhouse situated ? 

What important appendage has the poorhouse? 

Length of tlie Trenton bridge ? 

What schools have been established in every township ? 

How are the people of this county employed / 

How many banks in this county ? 

Mention six particulars relating to a cave in Durham township? 

CHESTER COUNTY. 

This county, together with Bucks and Philadelphia, was 
established in 1682, by William Penn. It extended to the 
west, indefinitely and was reduced to its present limits, by 
the formation of Lancaster and Bucks. The settlement was 
commenced by the intimate friends of William Penn, who 
were succeeded by English, Germans, and Irish Presbyte- 
rians. It is supposed, that one-third of the population are 
Friends. Chester is the third most wealthy county in the 
state. The present population is about 60,000. 

Chester presents an inviting aspect to the lover of mine- 
ralogy. This fact may be fully evinced, by a list of her 
geological formations. The county is traversed, from east 
to west, by old red sand stone, gneiss, limestone, mica and 
talc or slate, and serpentine. The red sand stone embraces 
the northern townships, extending to Kimberton. Here 
the gneiss commences, and extends south, to the Great 
Valley. This formation is interspersed with granular lime- 
stone, containing grains of green coccolite, a silicious oxide 
of titanum, which imparts to the limestone a singular and 
beautiful appearance. Specimens of this mineral are much 
valued by the mineralogist. This formation also abounds 
in rich iron ore. Hundreds of tons are annually conveyed 
from these mines, to the Schuylkill, thence to Reading and 
other places. 

The Great Valley which extends from the Schuylkill to 
the Susquehanna, is traversed by primitive limestone. 
About four years ago, a quarry was opened, on the Colum- 



96 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

bia railroad, that produces marble, which, for architectural 
purposes, is thoug-ht to be superior to that found in any 
other part of the United States. It is extensively used in 
the construction of the Girard College. 

South of the limestone, the mica and talc ore slate, make 
their appearance in the form of hills, ranging parallel with 
the course of the Great Valley, and extending to the ser- 
pentine formation, near West Chester. The serpentine 
traverses the county in a zigzag course, in the form of a 
narrow belt of barren hills, here and there rising in abrupt 
and broken elevations, presenting a singular contrast with 
the rich, fertile, and undulating surface of the surrounding 
landscape. In this formation are found rich deposits of 
chromate of iron ore, also magnesite, a mineral from which 
Epsom salts are manufactured. Gneiss makes its appear- 
ance again a few miles from West Chester, and embraces 
the greater part of the southern section of the county. 

Living in a country so abounding in mineral productions, 
the inhabitants delight to investigate the subject, and are 
making rapid progress in this interesting science. Among 
the different classes, who have attended to the subject, the 
farmers have manifested a particular interest. 

The surface of the county is greatly diversified ; being 
alternately hilly, mountainous, and level. It is abundantly 
watered by numerous creeks, which flow in different direc- 
tions, and empty either into the Schuylkill River, Chesa- 
peake Bay, or Delaware River. The Schuylkill skirts the 
county on the northeast. 

The soil is very different in different parts of the county. 
The valleys are generally rich and productive, and the 
Great Valley is eminently distinguished for fertility of soil 
and high cultivation. In those parts of the county which 
abound with limestone, the inhabitants use it as manure, 
and it is believed, that from five, to 800,000 bushels are an- 
nually employed in this way. The county is celebrated 
for its excellent wheat, barley, oats, butter, mutton, etc. 

The Schuylkill Canal winds along the banks of the river 
in the northeastern part of the county, affording eligible 
locations for manufacturing establishments. 

The common roads, in this county are generally good; 
and there are a number of railroads and turnpikes, the most 
important of which are the stone turnpike, from Philadel- 
phia to Pittsburg, the Philadelphia and Lancaster turnpike, 



CHESTER COUNTY. 97 

and the Columbia Railroad. These roads intersect the 
county from east to west. The bridges are numerous, con- 
structed of stone, and extremely well built. 

West Chester, the seat of justice, is on a high and healthy 
situation, on the dividing ridge, between the waters of the 
Brandy wine and Chester creek. It is surrounded by a fine 
country in a high state of cultivation. The town contains 
a court house, a jail, a market house, 7 houses for public 
worship, the bank of Chester county, a library, a cabinet 
of natural science, an athenaeum, two boarding schools, and 
an academy. Four weekly newspapers are published in 
the county; three in West Chester, and one in the village 
of Coatsville. The literary institutions of the town are 
numerous, and of a standing, that do honor to the inhabi- 
tants. The people are remarkable for industry and ingenu- 
ity. The battle of Brandy wine was fought near this village. 

So greatly has the business of this county increased, that 
the industrious inhabitants have made a railroad from the 
borough to the Columbia Railroad, at the Green Tree 
Tavern. 

Downingstown is, in some respects, the most interesting 
place in the county. It is located in the Great Valley, sur- 
rounded by extensive, rich, and highly productive farms, 
large stone buildings, and a combination of all the various 
objects which conduce to rural enjoyment. 

In Pikeland township, is a celebrated watering place, call- 
ed the Yellow Springs. It has good accommodations for 
visiters, is surrounded by delightful scenery, and is annually 
increasing in reputation. 

Paoli is a tavern on the great stone turnpike, ]6 miles 
from Philadelphia. Not far distant from this tavern, occur- 
red the lamentable defeat of General Wayne by the British, 
during the Revolutionary War, in 1777. To the disgrace 
of the British soldiery, be it recorded, that no quarter was 
given to the invalids, although they had been valiant sol- 
diers. On the twentieth of September, 1817, being the 
fortieth anniversary of the massacre, a monument was 
erected, over the grave of these gallant men, by the Repub- 
lican Artillerists of Chester county; aided by the contribu- 
tions of their fellow citizens. In consequence of its being 
near the Paoli Tavern, it is called Paoli. 

Valley Forge, a small village 20 miles northwest of 
Philadelphia, is remarkable in the history of the Revolu- 



98 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

tion, and deserves to be inscribed on the memory and heart 
of every American. By all, who are interested in the his- 
tory of our country, it vimII be recollected, that this was the 
place where our beloved Washington, and his suffering 
army, took up their winter quarters at the close of 1777. 
" Having erected a few huts for shelter from the inclemency 
of the weather, they soon found themselves in danger of 
starving. Add to this, they were almost destitute of clothes. 
Few had only one shirt, and many only the moiety of one; 
and some none at all. Some rested their shivering limbs 
upon straw, but most of thom upon the frozen ground. 
The influence of their condition, upon their lives and health, 
was most pernicious. Botta says that, " their hospital re- 
sembled more a receptacle for the dying, than a refuge for 
the sick." Speaking of the manner in which they bore 
their trials, the same author remarks, " they exhibited such 
examples of constancy and resignation, as we should not dare 
to prononnce, ever to have been equalled by other nations. 
Washington felt most keenly for his poor, ragged, naked, 
hungry, dying soldiers, whom he covild not relieve, and 
what greatly aggravated his trials was, that some blamed 
him, and wished him removed from office." Encompassed 
by such a mighty host of trials, we find this invincible hero, 
partly concealed behind the trees, pouring out his soul in 
prayer, for the salvation of his bleeding country. 

The inhabitants of this county manifest a deep interest 
in the business of education. The instruction of their chil- 
dren, is an object, held in high estimation by them, and the 
efforts, which they make for its promotion, evince a taste 
for literature and science. Numerous schools are establish- 
ed in different parts of the county, and supported wholly, 
by individual effort. Among these, the most distinguished 
are the Friends' Boarding School in West town township, 
an excellent Seminary for girls, at Kimberton, Pikeland 
township, kept bv the Misses Kimbers, an academy in East 
Whiteland, and one at Unionville. 

Although the inhabitants of this county are chiefly em- 
ployed in agricultural pursuits, yet. its manufactures are very 
considerable. The following table will give a pretty good 
idea of the productive industry, and moral wealth of this 
county, at least, so far as manufacturing establishments, and 
meeting houses are concerned. It has 2 furnaces, 6 forges, 
6 rolling-mills, 3 nail factories, I'Z tilt mills and edged tool 



CHESTER COUNTY. 99 

factories, 157 floui* mills, 182 saw mills, 21 cotton factories, 
30 woollen factories, 38 paper mills, 27 clover seed mills, 
107 meeting houses, 32 of which belong to the Society of 
Friends, 25 to the Methodists, 17 to Presbyterians, etc. 

Much more might be said, in relation to this interesting 
county, did our limits permit. We can, however, only add 
a single incident. *' Shortly after the arrival of William 
Penn, he proceeded to Upland, in order to call the first 
General Assembly. This, says Clarkson, was a memorable 
event, and to be distingnished by some marked circumstance. 
We determined, therefore, to change the name of the place. 
Turning round to his friend Pearson, one of his own socie- 
ty, who had accompanied him in the ship Welcome, he 
said. Providence has brought us here in safety. Thou art 
the companion of my perils. What wilt thou that we 
should call this place. Pearson replied, Chester, in remem- 
brance of the city from whence I came. William Penn 
said, that it should be called Chester, and that when he di- 
vided the land into counties, he would call one of them by 
the same name, also. This promise was soon after fulfilled. 

In what part of the state is Chester county? How bounded? De- 
scribe the Schuylkill River, etc. 

In what part of the county is West Chester? In what direction is 
Downingstown from West Chester? Coatesville? Cochranville? Paoli? 
Yellow Springs? etc. 

By whom was Chester county settled ? 

What is the comparative wealth, and population of this county? 
By what geological formations is Chester county traversed? 
What is the comparative quality of the marble, taken from a quarry 
on the Columbia Railroad? 

Whiit account can you give of the serpentine formation, in this 
county? 

What important mineral is found in this formation? 
What is the surface of this county? 
How is the county watered? What is the soil? 
Describe the Great Valley? 
What article is here used for manure? 
In what article of produce does the county abound? 
What canal extends along the northern bouiidary? What important 
roads intersect the county? 

How is West Chester situated? 

Vhat institutions and public buildings has West Chester ? 
Vhat railroad has been constructed by the inhabitants of this 
nty? 

)n what account is Downingstown, the most interesting place in 
county? 
Vhexe are the Yellow Springs situated? 



100 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

Tell the the story about the Paoli monument. 

Where is Valley Forge situated? 

What army encamped here at the close of 1777? 

What account can you give of the sufferings of this army? 

In their provisions for education what taste do the inhabitants of 
Chester county display? 

What are some of their most distinguished schools? 

What is the chief employment of the inhabitants? 

What ore is found in this county? 

What manufactories can you mention? 

What incident can you mention, in relation to this county, soon 
after the arrival of William Penn? 



LANCASTER COUNTY. 

For natural advantages, the county of Lancaster is emi-- 
nently distinguished. It is abundantly watered, has many 
excellent mill seals, the Susquehanna washes the western 
boundary, and the soil is very rich and productive. The 
land is in the highest state of cultivation. This county 
may be called the garden of Pennsylvania, and perhaps, 
the garden of America. It is doubtful, whether any por- 
tion of our country, Chester excepted, of equal extent, is so 
eminently distinguished as an agricultural district, as is the 
county of Lancaster. We behold extensive fields of living 
green, with scarcely the smallest spot left uncultivated. It 
produces an abundance of wheat and all other kinds of grain, 
a great variety of finely flavored delitjious apples, etc. 

The county has superior roads, a large city, many flour- 
ishing towns and villages, and a population, distinguished 
foi' enterprise, and persevering industry. 

The road between Columbia and Marietta is a curiosity. 
It is supported in many places by a w^all, which before the 
canal was made, rose perpendicularly, from the river. In 
several places, large points^of rocks were either taken off 
or cut through, thus making the basis of the road a founda- 
tion of solid stone. Some of these rocks contain a small 
quantity of gold. 

A railroad now runs from Lancaster to Harrisburg, and 
the great stone turnpike, and the Philadelphia and Columbia 
Railroad passes through this county from east to west. On 
this railroad are a number of bridges, remarkable for length 
and beauty. This road, in its whole extent, is through one 
of the finest countries in the world. The surface is undu- 



LANCASTER COUNTY. 101 

lating, under a very high state of cultivation, interspersed 
with some elegant country seats and large stone barns,. 
When travelling this road in the spring, we are constantly 
delighted with scattered flowers, and trees either in blossom 
or beginning to shoot forth the tender fruit, meandering 
streams, and wide spreading fields of verdure, promising 
a rich reward to the waiting husbandman. The beauties 
of this charming region of cultivation, were, apparently, 
not a little increased by the intervening cliffs which extend 
along the road; the ricli landscape now opening, and now 
again receding from view. In some places the road is ex- 
cavated through^ massy rocks, to a great depth, in others, 
through deep hills of clay. Some of the beautiful bridges 
we pass, are over streams, and some over deep and exten- 
sive valleys. Roads are frequently carried over our heads, 
and we are often carried over the roads. 

Its geological features are strongly marked, the southern 
part being underlayed by limestone, while the nonhern 
is covered by transition red sandstone. The limestone of 
the southern half furnishes the inhabitants with an abund- 
ance of manure, with materials for buildings, and beautiful 
marble for ornamental purposes. This portion also pro* 
duces great quantities of the materials from which Epsom 
salts are made. It is computed, that 1,500,000 pounds of 
this article, are annually made in this county. A bed of 
iron ore, of a superior quality, has been discovered and 
wrought for many years. It is situated at the foot of the 
Mine Ridge. On the banks of the Susquehanna, about two 
miles from the Maryland line, there is an extensive quarry 
of slate, of an excellent quality. Large quantities are used 
for covering buildings, etc. 

Lancaster is intersected by three ranges of hills. Mine 
Ridge, Ephrata Ridge, and Conewago or South Mountain. 

Lancaster county abounds with excellent water, and wa- 
ter power. The river Susquehanna laves its western side 
from the mouth of the Conewago, to the Maryland line, a 
distance of about 40 miles, and the county is intersected by- 
several fine streams, upon which numerous merchant mills, 
forges, and factories, of various kinds, are erected. Some 
of the more important creeks are Big and Little Chicques, 
Conestoga, Piquea and Octoraro. Besides these, there are 
numerous smaller streams and rivulets, interspersed through- 
out the county, affording sites for water works, and diffus- 
10 



102 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

ing health and fertility to the surrounding country. The 
Conestoga is now made navigable from its rise, in the north- 
east part of the county, to the city of Lancaster, a distance 
of 18 miles. 

Excellent bridges, equally remarkable for strength, beau- 
ty, and utiUty, abound in this county. Those most worthy 
of notice, are over the Susquehanna and Conestoga. '1 he 
bridge over the Susquehanna at Columbia, is 5690 feet in 
length, and, in this respect, is exceeded by no one in the 
Union, except the one at Washington over the Potomac. 

Lancaster City, the seat of justice for Lancaster county, 
is one of the largest inland towns in Pennsylvania, and has 
long been distinguished as a place of business. The inter- 
nal improvements of the state have conduced greatly to 
increase the commercial interests of this city. The public 
buildings consist of three banks, a court house, a jail, an 
academy, and eight or ten houses of public worship. Each 
church has a Sabbath School attached to it, and connected 
with the Presbyterian church, is a Missionary Society, and 
an Education Society. The Franklin College was estab- 
lished here; but continued in operation only two years. 
Here is a public school, many private schools, two Libra- 
ries, a Reading Room, Museum, several benevolent socie- 
ties, eight presses which publish several English, and four 
German papers, and numerous manufactories. 

The streets of Lancaster are rectangular, and are gener- 
ally paved. Formerly, the buildings were in the German 
style with only one story; but the houses more recently 
erected, are lofty, and in convenience and beauly, are said 
not to be surpassed by any in the state. The present 
population is 10,000. 

Lancaster is not, however, such a city as we might ex- 
pect from the high state of improvement, which exists in 
the surrounding country. The first setders are said to have 
been poor, and their descendants are poor; and there is no 
public square in the city, but the one in the centre of the 
town, in which the court house is placed.* But whether 
Lancaster be a pleasant city or not we must remember that 
the people, and not the buildings, make the place; we must 

* It seemed to be a favourite plan in <ill the proprietary towns, to 
place the court house in a public square, in the centre of the town, as 
occurs in Lancaster, York, Carlisle, Reading-, Easton, etc. 



LANCASTER COUNTY. 103 

not conclude, that intelligence, and moral worth are in pro- 
portion to the external appearance. If the few individuals, 
with whom we have had some acquaintance, are any thing 
like a fair specimen of the whole, we should think, that Lan- 
caster was distinguished for intelligence and hospitality. 

We regret to say, that Lancaster county is noted for hav- 
ing been the place where a number of peaceable, friendly 
Indians were treated with awful barbarity. This deed was 
committed by some of the inhabitants of Paxton and Done- 
gal townships, in the year 1763. The unfounded pretence 
for tliis outrage was that the Indians had assisted the hos- 
tile tribes on the frontiers. Thirty of these men approached 
the wigwams of some of thdr quiet Indian neighbours, and 
there found women, children, a few old men, and a chief, 
who had always been friendly to them. All these helpless 
beings, they inhumanly slaughtered. Most of the Indians 
were from home at the time ^of the massacre, and were 
taken, and lod;i:ed in the Lancaster prison for proteclion. 
But the poor, bereaved, afflicted creatures, could not, even 
here, find safety. Fifty men of the same party, most unex- 
pectedly entered the city on a Sabbath, while the inhabi- 
tants were at church, forced open the prison, and put to 
death all these Indians, 14 in number. So expeditious were 
they in the performance of this dreadful deed, that they 
escaped without being detected. 

*' Ephrata, a township in this county, is situated about 13 
miles northeast of Lancaster. New Ephrata is a smaller 
village, about a mile distant. These settlements were made 
by a singular religious sect, called Dunkers, a denomination 
which took their rise in Germany, and in 1719, removed 
to Pennsylvania, and settled in Germantown. In 1724, one 
of their number, Conrad Beissel, retired to this agreeable 
solitude, for the more free exercise of religious contempla- 
tion. Curiosity attracted followers, and his simple, and 
engaging manner made them proselytes. They soon set- 
tled a little colony, called Ephrata, in allusion to the He- 
brews, who used to sing Psalms on the borders of the river 
-Euphrates. They are said to have derived their name from 
baptizing by immersion. As they presented themselves to 
the ordinance, in a peculiar manner, bowing forward, they 
were in ridicule, called Tumblers. 

" The dress of these people was very peculiar. That 
of the males consisted of a shirt, trowsers^ and vest, with 



104 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

a long white gown or cowl; that of the females differed 
only in the substitution of petticoats for trowsers. They 
covered their faces with their cowls, when going into public. 
In walking, all used the same gait, keeping straight forward, 
with their eyes fixed on the ground, and would not even 
turn to give an answer when asked a question. Thus ac- 
eoutered, with sandals on their feet, forty or fifty foilow'ed 
each other, in Indian file, in occasional visits to their friends 
in Germ an town. 

" The men and women had separate apartments, and 
distinct governments. They lived chiefly on roots and 
other vegetables. The rules of their society did not allow 
flesh, except on particular occasions, when they held what 
was called a love feast. On such occasions, the brethren 
and sisters dined together in large apartments, and eat mut- 
ton. In each of their little cells, they had a bench fixed, to 
serve the purpose of a bed, a small block of wood for a 
pillow, and attended worship four times, in twenty-four 
hours. This manner of living macerated their bodies, and 
rendered their complexion pale and bloodless." 

The principal tenet of the Dunkers, appears to have been 
that future happiness is to be obtained only by penance, 
and outward mortification in this life. 

The death of Beissel was a destructive blow to this sect. 
Their villages remain, but the peculiarities of their inhabi- 
tants have ceased. In Franklin county, and some other 
parts of the state, a considerable number are found, who 
still retain many of the eccentricities of their sect. They 
wear long beards, kiss when they meet, baptize by immer- 
sion, etc. They occasionally have large meetings, twelve 
days in succession, and give supper to all who attend. 
Many of them are rich. The first Sunday School in the 
United States, was established at Ephrata. 

Columbia, a village on the Susquehanna, II miles south- 
west of Lancaster, is distinguished as being the centre of in- 
ternal improvements. The improvements are the bridge 
over the Susquehanna, the Columbia Railroad, and State 
Canal. Much of the trade on the Susquehanna, centres 
here. The town is rapidly increasing, and will, no doubt, 
become a place of very extensive business and wealth. It 
contains two or three thousand inhabitants, five churches, a 
bank, and a town hall with a clock. The upper story of 
the town hall is occupied by the Lyceum, as a museum> 



LANCASTER COUNTY. 105 

and lecture room. Weekly vscienlific lectures are delivered 
here to a large audience, a great part of whom are ladies. 

A large amount of lumber is sold here, annually, and the 
whiskey trade is quite extensive. 

Two miles above Columbia, the road and canal fill the 
base of a nearly perpendicular cliff, known by the name of 
Chicque's Rock. One part of the rock, in a western view, 
represents a very perfect colossal profile. This is a hard 
silicious rock, and separates two limestone valleys. 

MarFetta, situated three miles above Columbia, on the 
Susquehanna river, carries on an extensive lumber trade with 
the interior, and does considerable business in the flour and 
whiskey trade. Here are four churches, two with steeples. 

At the head of the town is a large reservoir of excellent 
spring water, which is conveyed to all the principal streets 
by means of iron pipes. In this village are two mineral 
springs, which are said to be valuable. 

Here the scenery begins to assume a bolder aspect, the 
undulating surface gives place to a more broken country. 
The cultivated fields are delightfully contrasted with the 
woody eminences. Here we crossed the Susquehanna in 
a flat, the bridge not being completed. It took an hour to 
get over, while eight men were hard at work, rowing the 
boat. Some of the interesting objects, that meet the eye 
as we cross the river, are the numerous rafis, which descend 
the stream, the ragged rocks, imbedded in the water, the 
noble bridge, the islands seen through its numerous arches, 
and the more distant hills, rising in beauteous prospect. 

Litiz is a Moravian settlement, eight miles north of Lan- 
caster. This town is particularly noted for neatness, and 
in this respect, has been compared to a New England village. 
It contains 70 or 80 dwellings, a Male and Female Semi- 
nary, a Brother's and Sister's House, a handsome church, 
surmounted with a cupola and bell, several stores, good 
public houses, etc. The Female Seminary has had a high 
reputation; every thing is in fine order, and the exhibitions 
of work are very handsome. The school for boys and 
young men, employs three teachers, is in a good condition, 
and well supported. It has a good library, cabinet, and 
philosophical apparatus. 

At a little distance from the town, is an uncommonly 
beautiful spring. They have a house, which they call the 
dead house, a small stone building, to which persoas are 

10* 






106 GEOGRArHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

carried immediately after death. It has been the policy and 
practice of the Society of the United Brethren to keep all 
their villages in their own hands, and to permit none but 
members of their own society, to reside in them permanently. 
A gentleman in Lancaster informed me, that during the in- 
disposition of his wife, he wished to spend a few weeks at 
Litiz for the benefit of her health. Accordingly, he rented 
a house in the place, but was not permitted to occupy it, 
until he had obtained special permission from the town 
officer. 

The Moravians are great musicians. At Litiz, they have 
a band who keep all their instruments in a room, appropri- 
ated for the purpose. If a stranger arrives, and wishes for 
an exhibition of their music, the mechanic leaves his work- 
shop, the farmer his hoe , the merchant his store, the teacher 
his school, etc., all assemble at the appointed room, and in 
a few minutes they strike up a tune in fine concert. A box 
is placed at the door, into which the visiters throw their 
voluntary offerings. 

This county is not surpassed, in the amount of its ex- 
ports, by that of any in the state. They consist of differ- 
ent kinds of grain, whiskey, iron in every variety of form, 
etc. The following list will furnish some evidence of the 
number and variety of the manufactures. In 1833, there 
were, in the county, seven furnaces, 14 forges, 183 distille- 
ies,* 45 tan yards, 32 fulling mills, 164 grist-mills, eight 
hemp mills, 87 saw mills, nine breweries, five oil mills, 
three cotton manufactories, three potteries, three paper 
mills, etc. 

Very considerable attention has, of late, been paid to the 
cultivation of the grape. The species most extensively 
used, is an indigenous plant, taken from an island, in the 
Susquehanna, called the Susquehanna grape. 

The most numerous religious denominations in the 
county, are the Lutherans and German Reformed. Be- 
sides, there are Moravians, Presbyterians, Methodists, 
Friends, Dunkers, and Menonists. 

It is a matter of very serious regret, that the provisions 
for education, in this wealthy county, are so very inconsid- 
erable. There is, however, an academy at Lancaster and 

* We are happy to be able to state, that the number of distilleries 
is now greatly diminished. 



LANCASTER COUNTY. 1(^7 

a seminary has recently been established near Lancaster, 
called the Abbeville Institute. It bids fair to become a 
flourishing and useful institution. In different parts of the 
county there are, also, numerous private institutions, under 
the superintendance of competent teachers. In the city of 
Lancaster, there are female seminaries of high standing, 
and several private academies, in which the languages are 
taught, and the higher branches of English education. The 
number of newspapers, printed in this county, seem to 
evince a reading people. In Lancaster city, there are 
four in the English language and two in the German, and 
several others in different places. An agricultural society 
has been formed, in the county, and in the vicinity of 
Lancaster, there is a poorhouse, and a house of employ- 
ment. 

Some interesting remains of animals have here been dis- 
covered. In a quarry at Soudersburg, in 1810, were found 
some large fossil bones, probably, of the mammoth; which 
were buried 9 or 10 feet below the surface. Two miles 
distant from the quarry, a large tooth had been previously 
found. 

While excavating the Slate Canal near Bainbridge, the 
labourers found a number of articles, which were supposed 
to have been the workmanship of the Indians. The arti- 
cles were a stone hatchet, a tobacco pipe, with the bowl in 
the shape of a fox's head, a rude tomahawk, a small brass 
basin, two keys, a small globular bell, pieces of pottery, 
and beads, looking-glasses, red paint, a stone pestle and 
mortar. 

In what part of the state is Lancaster county ? How bounded ? 
What river washes the western coast ? Describe the three larg^est 
creeks. In what part of the county is Lancaster city ? In what di- 
rection is Columbia from Lancaster? Marietta? Strasburg? FiaL 
mouth ? Farfield, Ephrata? etc. 

What are some of the natural advantages, which this county pos- 
sesses ? 

What appellation has been given to this county ? ~ 

Some of the productions? 

What roads pass through the county from east to west? 

Describe the country, through which the Philadelphia and Colum- 
bia, Railroad passes. 

With what objects are we delighted, when travelling this road in 
the spring? 

With what natural advantage does Lancaster county abound ? 

What are the geological features? 



108 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

What useful article does the limestone of this district afford ? 

What article is made here in great abundance ? 

W^hat hills intersect the county ? 

What mineral is found in Mine Ridge on the Susquehanna river? 

For what are the bridges in this county remarkable ? 

What is the length of the bridge which crosses the Susquehanna at 
Columbia ? 

Which town is the seat of justice ? 

What is the comparative size of Lancaster ? 

What are the public buildings in Lancaster? 

What institution is connected with each church in Lancaster? 
What are the institutions for education ? etc. 

Tell the story of the Indian massacre ? 

How far from Lancaster is Ephrata ? By whom settled ? What 
do you remember about the Dunkers ? 

For what is Columbia distinguished? How situated? Public 
buildings ? How supplied with water ? 

What are some of the interesting objects, that meet the eye, as we 
cross the Susquehanna River at Columbia? 

Where is Litiz ? What buildings does it contain ? 

For what is Litiz particularly noted ? What is the dead house ? 

What are some of the manufactures, mentioned in the catalogue ? 

To the cultivation of what article has very considerable attention 
of late been paid ? 

What are the most numerous religious denominations? 

What schools are established ? What institution near the city of 
Lancaster? Number of newspapers printed at Lancaster? 

What remains of animals have been found here ? 

What articles were discovered in excavating the State Canal ? 



DELAWARE COUNTY. 

A SHORT ride from Philadelphia city, will bring you to 
the small county of Delaware. Here you will find large 
masses of the primitive gneiss, aud see a great number of 
people at work in the quarries, preparing stone for build- 
ing. 

The alluvial land in this county, formerly covered with 
water, is now intersected by dykes, by means of which the 
water has been drained off, and the land being reclaimed, 
affords pasturage for immense flocks of. cattle, which are 
brought from other places, and fattened for the Philadelphia 
market. 

Here a mine of copper has been discovered. Delaware 
was at an early period, the favourite residence of the Swedes. 
Here, the first settlement in the province commenced, and 



DELAWARE COUNTY. 109 

in 1682, when Penn came to take possession of his colony, 
he found a village, already beginning to flourish in this 
county. This village, called Upland, was distinguished for 
its hospitality to the pioneers, whom Penn had sent out 
the preceding year. They landed at this place in the 
month of December. 'J'hat night the river closed, and 
they were kindly entertained by the inhabitants, until the 
return of spring. 

In the county are numerous small streams, most of which 
flow into the Delaware. This river washes the southeas- 
tern coast, the Brandy wine touches the southwest. 

A large proportion of the inhabitants are the descendants 
of Swedes, English, Welsh, and Irish. The county is 
flourishing and well farmed, and the people enjoy, in pro- 
fusion, the bounties of Providence. Here are 25 places of 
public worship, and a flourishing school recently established 
by the Haverford Association of Friends, at Haverford. 

Chester is the county town. The public buildings of 
the county consist of a Lazaretto, in Tinicum township, a 
poorhouse and house of employment on a farm, a court 
house, a prison, a bank at Chester, and sixteen houses of 
public worship, nine of which belonfif to the Friends. Two 
newspapers are printed at Chester, and primary schools are 
established, pretty generally, through the county. 

The exports consist of horned cattle and agricultural arti- 
cles, such as rye, wheat, flour, and esculent vegetables. A 
vast amount of stone for building and curbing the side pave- 
ments is also sent away. 

The farmers of Delaware county are said to be thrifty, 
honest, and well informed; the manufacturers are indefatig- 
able, persevering and intelligent, and the mechanics are in- 
dustrious, capable, and temperate. 

The manuAictories are numerous, and are established in 
almost every part of the county. A few years ago there 
were thirty-eight flour mills, fifty-three saw mills, four- 
teen woollen factories, twelve cotton factories, five rolling 
and slitting mills, eleven paper mills, two powder mills, one 
nail factory, four edged tool factories, two oil mills, one 
machine factory, one snufF factory, etc. 

In what part of the state is Delaware county ? How bounded ? 
How is Chester situated ? Darby ? What river skirts the eastern 
boundary ? What is the principal rock in this county ? What usft 
is made of it ? 



110 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

How has the alluvial land in this county, been reclaimed ? What 
use is made of the reclaimed land? 

For what is the county distinguished ? 

Of what people was it, at an early period, the favourite residence? 

What facts are here mentioned in connection with Upland ? 

From what people have a large proportion of the inhabitants de- 
scended ? 

County town ? Public buildings of the county ? 

Number of churches? Number of newspapers printed? 

What schools are established ? 

In what do the exports of the county consist ? 

Mention some of the manufactories ? 



MONTGOMERY COUNTY. 

This you will find a very pleasant county; every thing 
wears the aspect of wealth and comfort. Here are no 
mountains, but there are some bold and strikiug eminences 
in the northwest; and the face of the country is, generally, 
pleasantly diversified with alternate hills and valleys. A 
copper mine has been discovered, which is supposed to be 
valuable, and a lead mine, upon the Perkiomen, has been 
wrouorht to considerable advantaore, but is now discontinued. 

The soil is generally good, particularly along the Schuyl- 
kill valley. In some of the townships, limestone prevails, 
and the county is, for the most part, under the highest state 
of cultivation. 

The Schuylkill river, the numerous dams on the Schuyl- 
kill Canal, and the creeks, which intersect the county in 
different directions, afford mill seats in abundance. Nu- 
merous mills are erected for manufacturing purposes, and 
being scattered all over the county, conduce, greatly, to the 
convenience of the inhabitants. 

Besides the numerous common roads, which are uncom- 
monly excellent, there are six stone turnpikes. A railroad 
has been constructed from Philadelphia to Norristown, 
through Germantown, called the Philadelphia, Germantown, 
and Norristown Railroad. The cars, on this road, seem 
almost in perpetual motion. They transport the various 
articles, brought to Norristown by the Schuylkill Canal, 
the manufactures of Norristown, the marble, lime, lime- 
stone, and iron of Plymouth and Whitemarsh townships, 
and almost countless numbers of passengers. This county 
supplies nearly all the lime and limestone, used in the city 



^ MONTGOMERY COUNTY. Ill 

of Philadelphia, and immense quantities are annually ship- 
ped to New Jersey. 

In this county are to be seen some of the finest exhibi- 
tions of bridge architecture. It is ascertained, that in num- 
ber and excellence, the bridges of this county, with the ex- 
ception of Philadelphia, surpass that of any county in the 
state. The Perkiomen bridge, which is of solid masonry, 
cost $60,000, and that at Norristown $31,000. 

Montgomery county contains a number of flourishing 
towns. Willow Grove is a very pleasant village, much 
admired by the Philadelphians, who, during the summer, 
are induced, by its many attractions, to make it a place of 
frequent resort. Norristown, the seat of justice, is situated 
on the Schuylkill, sixteen miles northeast of Philadelphia. 
It was so'named in compliment to Isaac Norris, an intimate 
friend of William Penn. *' He was an early setder, a 
popular statesman, a judge of the province, and joint owner, 
with William Trent, of the township of Norristown." In 
1830, the population was 1300. The public buildings are 
a large, handsome courthouse, surmounted with a cupola 
and bell, a jail, an academy, a bank, and four churches. 
Here also, is a library containing 1600 volumes, a Literary 
Society, a cabinet of natural history, six daily primary 
schools, and four Sunday schools. Three weekly news- 
papers are published. The manufacturing establishments 
are too numerous to be mentioned; the following are some 
of the most important. Timber mills, grist mills, a tin, 
carpel, cotton, and weaving factory, an extensive nail fac- 
tory, and a mill for sawing marble. In the weaving de- 
partment 30,000 yards of cloth are made weekly. Here 
we find almost every establishment, which could conduce 
to the convenience and comfort of man. Here the Schuyl- 
kill is crossed by a fine bridge, 800 feet in length; the town 
has a pleasant and healthy location, and its vicinity to Phila- 
delphia, and the superior advantages which it possesses of 
water power and railroad, will, probably, be the means of 
its becoming a place of great manufacturing establishments. 
The Reading and Philadelphia Railroad passes through 
Pottstown, which is one of the most thriving villages in 
the county, containing about 6 or 700 inhabitants. 

In this county is an almshouse, and a house of employ- 
ment. The latter is erected on a farm of about 200 acres, 
on the east bank of the Schuylkill. 



112 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

The religious denominations are various. The most 
numerous are Presbyterians, including the German Re- 
formed* There is a county Bible Society and other be- 
nevolent associations have been formed. 

Montgomery is distinguished for attention to agriculture. 
Various articles, such as beef, pork, butter, cheese, fruits, 
vegetables, etc, are here found in great abundance, and of 
a superior quality, a vast amount of which is sent to the 
Philadelphia market. 

Not only Norristown, but the county in general, is dis- 
tinguished for manufactories. There are 17 merchant mills, : 
99 grist mills, 76 saw mills, 3 marble or stone mills, 15 
paper mills, 9 cotton factories, 3 woollen factories, 11 full- 
ing mills,* 27 tanneries, etc. On the Tacony creek is 
a chocolate manufactory, at which 30 tons of that article 
are annually made. 

The county contains three academies, one at Norristown, 
one at Lower Merion and one at Hatborough, called Lol- 
lar Academy, endowed by Judge Lollar. Schools are es- 
tablished for the gratuitous instruction of poor children, in 
which hundreds are educated at an annual cost of three or 
four thousand dollars. 

There are in the county, 6 public libraries, and five 
weekly newspapers are printed; 2 in the German language 
and 3 in the English. Among the public institutions, may 
be mentioned several societies for the apprehension of horse 
thieves. JFhe result of their efforts has been very salutary. 
About five miles from Pottsville is a curiosity, consisting of 
large rocks, piled upon one another, apparently by the hand 
of man; some of which being struck wiih a hammer, will 
vibrate similar to an anvil or bell. One, in particular, has a 
sound^somewhat resembling the old state house bell in Phila- 
delphia. A remarkable fact, in relation to them, is, that while 
the musical rocks are all naked, the surrounding ones are 
all covered with moss. The place is called Kinglaberry or 
Singing Hill. 

In what part of the state is Montgomery county? How bounded ? 
What are the principal rivers ? Describe the Schuylkill. In what 
part of the county is Norristown ? In what direction is Willow Grove 
from Norristown ? Hatboro ? etc. 

What is the general aspect of Montgomery county ? 

Soil ? State of agriculture ? 

What number of turnpikes traverse the county ? 

What railroad has been constructed ? 



BERKS COUNTY. 113 

What is said of the bridges in this county ? 

Which of the towns are frequented by the citizens of Philadelphia? 
Which is the seat of justice ? How situated ? 
In compliment to whom was Norristown named ? 
Public buildings? Literary establishments ? 

What facilities has Norristown for becoming a great manufacturing 
place ? 

What religious denomination is most prevalent ? 

Some of the articles of produce ? 

To what market is much of the produce of this county sent? 

Mention some of the various manufactories. 

Number of academies? 

Number of public libraries? 

Number of newspapers? 

What socie. ies are mentioned among the public Institutions ? 

What curiosity? 

BERKS COUNTY. 

Here we find a German population; and it is not uncom- 
mon to meet with individuals among them who can neither 
speak nor understand English. The county was settled 
chiefly by Germans, and their descendants now occupy a 
great portion of the soil. This county lies in the Great 
Valley, between the Kitlatinny and South Mountain, and 
in its geological formation, partakes of the features which 
so peculiarly distinguish this valley throughout the state, 
a distance of about 160 miles. The southern part is un- 
derlayed by transition limestone, the northern is composed 
of clay slate. The inflection of the rocks which form this 
valley, corresponds with that of the mountains, and where 
they meet they appear as if united by art. Iron ore is 
found in both formations but i? more abundant, and of a 
better quality in the limestone than in the slate. 

In the limestone section, the surface is comparatively 
level, and the soil rich. The slate region is more diversi- 
fied, and the soil not so good. In the limestone formation, 
the inhabitants are subjected to the inconvenience of an un- 
equal distribution of water; but in the slate formation, the 
diffusion is more equal. 

This county is abundantly watered, and intersected, near 
the middle, by the Schuylkill river. The other principal 
streams are Maiden and Tulpehocken creeks. The Union 
Canal follows the banks of the Tulpehocken, and the Schuyl- 
kill Canal extends along the banks of the Schuylkill river 
nearly through the county. 
11 



114 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

Nnmerons roads intersect the county in every direction. 
Three of them are superior stone turnpikes. One leads 
from Reading to Philadelphia, one to Harrisburg, and the 
other to Orvvigsburg. 

Reading, situated on the east bank of the Schuylkill one 
mile below the mouth of the Tulpehocken creek, is the 
county town. The eye rests with peculiar pleasure on this 
beautiful little place. As we approach the town from the 
west, the objects, which first arrest the attention, are the 
towering steeples whose glittering spires seem almost to 
reach the clouds. We then descend a steep hill, and may 
employ ourselves in observing the bridge, the canal, the 
river, the precipitous banks, etc. Having ascended the op- 
posite hill, we find ourselves in a handsome town, regularly 
laid out, with spacious streets, containing fine buildings of 
brick and stone. Like most of the other towns in Penn- 
sylvania, Reading is laid out on a plan similar to that of 
Philadelphia, the streets running in straight lines, and inter- 
secting each other at right angles. 

Reading contains between seven and eight hundred 
houses, including a courthouse, public offices, a jail, three 
markets, two banks, an academy, and ten churches. The 
churches are, many of them, fine edifices. The Episcopal 
is a beautiful specimen of Gothic architecture. The stee- 
ple of the Lutheran church is 200 feel high, independent of 
the iron rod which supports the ball and vane, and is be- 
lieved to be the highest steeple in the state. The town is 
well supplied with public houses. Most of them are large 
and commodious, and one is very spacious and elegant. 
The river is here about 600 feet wide, and is crossed by 
two fine wooden bridges, covered, and supported by stone 
piers and abutments. 

Located in a rich limestone country, on the great western 
turnpike road, enjoying the advantages of a healthy atmos- 
phere, and two canals, Reading bids fair to become one of 
the most important inland towns in Pennsylvania. At pre- 
sent, it is flourishing, and highly prosperous. Surrounded 
by streams, affording excellent mill seats, it has long been 
extensively engaged in the traffic of flour and grain. 

The place is celebrated for the manufacture of wool hats. 
Engaged in this business, a large proportion of the inhabi- 
tants find support, and many have acquired wealth. The 
annual amount of hats, made here, is computed to be 20 or 
30,000 dozens. Among the various other occupations of 



BERKS COUNTY. 115 

the inhabitants, are printing, rope making-, cabinet making, 
lime burning, etc. A large manufactory of stoneware has 
been established, and the town contains twenty large stores, 
besides several smaller ones. Five weekly newspapers are 
printed, two in the English language, and three in the Ger- 
man. Successful attempts have been made, in Reading 
and the vicinity, to cultivate foreign grapes, and considera- 
ble wine has been produced. 

*'JNo town in the Union surpasses Reading, in salubrity 
and beauty of situation. Standing upon a plateau, formed 
by the depression of magnificent hills towards the river, 
the plat is sufficiently level for the purposes of convenience, 
and sufficiently elevated to prevent the stagnation of waters. 
The hills around afford a rich variety of prospect for the 
lovers of the picturesque." The bold ascent of the Blue 
Mountain, on the north, at the distance of seventeen miles 
is distinctly seen, and the intervening hills and valleys 
exhibit a succession of well cultivated farms, blooming in 
luxuriant vegetation. On the rise of one of the mountains, 
is Hamden spring, from which the town is abundantly sup- 
plied with excellent water, by means of pipes. 

The population of Reading, as well as that of the county, 
is mostly German, and distinguifehed for industry and econ- 
omy. The English language is, however, generally spo- 
ken, and taught in most of their schools. There is, besides, 
an academy, a large and handsome building, in which the 
classics and higher English branches are taught. 

On a farm three miles from Reading is a poorhouse, and 
house of employment for the poor of the county. 

Out of the town of Reading, the provisions for educa- 
tion are very limited, and in many places there are no 
schools for teaching even the rudiments of English educa- 
tion. 

I wish you, my dear pupils, to recollect, that in this 
noble state of ours, there is a great deal of interesting sce- 
nery. For those who live in the city, and do not travel 
much, it is rather difficult to form just conceptions of its 
varied beauties. Some of you have been travellers, and 
still retain in recollection, the delightful scenery you have 
witnessed. Others I would wish to assist in forming some 
proper idea of the natural beauties, with which this region 
abounds. In travelling from Reading to Philadelphia, for 
jnstaace, endeavour, in the first place, to look at the lofty as- 



116 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

cent of the Blue Ridge, the numerous gaps, the extensive 
sidelong regions of cultivation at the foot of the mountains, 
the hills, and spurs of the mountains, scattered and thrown 
about in every varied beauty of form and size. As you gradu- 
ally approach a more undulating surface, your attention is di- 
rected to the streams, the bridges, firm as the everlasting 
mountains, the mills, the kilns of limestone, the cattle upon 
a thousand hills, the elegant country seats, scattered trees 
and flowers, and the whole dressed in living green. You 
are invigorated with refreshing breezes, regaled with a de- 
lightful fragrance, and cheered with the sweet notes of the 
animated little songsters. And as you are whirled rapidly 
along in the stage, all these varied beauties are continually 
advancing near, or receding from view. At one time you 
ascend a ridge, and behold objects of interest far and wide, 
that cannot be numbered ; again you descend, where your 
view is limited to a few objects of admiration. 

In what part of the state is Berks county ? How bounded ? What 
mountains do you find on the map ? Principal streams ? Describe 
the Schuylkill ? In what part of the county is Reading ? In what 
direction is Unionville from Reading? Hamburg? Kutztown? etc . 

By what people was this county mostly settled ? 

In what valley does the county lie ? 

In what formation is iron found most abundantly ? What is the 
soil ? 

To what inconvenience are the inhabitants subjected in the lime- 
stone formation ? 

Canals in this county ? 

What number of stone turnpikes lead from Reading ? 

On what river is Reading situated ? 

As we approach Reading from the west, what objects arrest the 
attention ? 

What are the public buildings ? 

How high is the steeple of the Lutheran church ? 

By how many bridges is the river crossed at Reading ? 

What advantages does Reading enjoy ? 

In what trade has Reading long been extensively engaged? 

For the manufacture of what article is Reading celebrated ? 

What number of hats is supposed to be made here annually ? 

Can you mention some of the various occupations of the inhabi- 
tants ? 

What number of newspapers is printed here ? 

What number of stores does Reading contain? 

What foreign article has been successfully cultivated in Reading 
and the vicinity ' 

In what respect is Reading not surpassed by any town in the 
Union ? 



LEBANON COUNTY. IIT 

Describe the situation of Reading-. 
How is the town supplied with water ? 
What schools in Reading ? 

For what are the Germans in this county distinguished ? 
What are the provisions for education out of Reading ? 
What are some of the interesting objects, which arrest the attention 
as we travel from Reading to Philadelphia ? 

LEBANON COUNTY. 

Lebanon is a fine county, possessing very great advanta- 
ges both natural and artificial. It lies between the Kitta- 
tinny and South Mountain, in the same great valley as the 
preceding county, the soil being divided between the lime- 
stone formation and the slate. The limestone section 
produces an abundance of iron ore. 

The surface of the county is much diversified. The 
northern and southern parts are mountainous, the central 
parts are level or rolling, and the soil, whether of limestone 
formation or slate, is highly productive. 

The county is traversed, near the centre, by the Union 
Ganal, and in every direction, by good roads. It is in- 
habited almost exclusively by Germans. 

In East Hanover township between First Mountain 
and Second, is a noted cold spring, vi/hich possesses many 
attractions, and is a place of much resort. 

Lebanon, the seal of justice, is situated on the turnpike 
road from Harrisburg to Reading. It is a very pretty vil- 
lage, regularly laid out, and the buildings are chiefly of 
brick or stone. The Union Canal passing near the town, 
conduces much to its commercial advantages. The town 
contains three or four hundred houses, five places of public 
worship, a library, a large brick court house, and a spa- 
cious stone prison, surrounded by a wall sixteen feet high. 

Besides the public buildings in the town of Lebanon, 
there is in the county, a spacious almshouse, an academy, 
and several churches. There are Tract Societies, a county 
Bible Society, and at Lebanon, three weekly journals are 
published. 

The manufactures of the county consist, chiefly, of iron, 
and woollen cloths. Cloths, for domestic purposes, are 
mostly made by the wives and daughters of farmers. As 

11* 



118 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

a very high encomium, it is said, "that the agricultural skill 
of the county has all that German industry and perseverance 
can give." 

In what part of the state is the county of Lebanon? How bounded? 
In what part of the county is the town of Lebanon? In what direction 
is Myerstown from Lebanon? Palmyra? Jonestown? etc. 

Describe the principal streams? 

What advantages does this county possess? 

Between what mountains does it lie' In what valley? 

What minerjl is found in the limestone section? 

What is the surface? 

By what canal is the county traversed? What are the roads? 

What spring is found in East Hanover township? 

By what people is fhe county mostly inhabited? 

Which town is the seat of justice? 

What are the public buildings? 

To what denomination does the greater number of churches belong? 

What benevolent societies? 

What do you recollect about the manufactures of the county? 

DAUPHIN COUNTY. 

Dauphin is, for the most part, a broken region, traversed 
by different chains of mountains. In surface and soil the 
county is equally diversified. One-fourth is so rugged as 
to be unfit for cultivation; one-fourth consists of woodland, 
abounding in hills, but susceptible of improvement; the re- 
mainder is cultivated, but has all the variety of soil, from 
the most unproductive slate, to the richest limestone, and 
still richer river bottom. 

In this county we find a great variety of scenery, in some 
places it wears a bold, rugged, and forbidding aspect, in 
others, we are particularly impressed with the grandeur of 
the scene, while in a different direction, the eye calmly rests 
on a variety of objects, abounding in the beautiful. 

Crossing the county from south to north, we traverse in 
succession the Conewago Hills, the Blue Mountain, the 
Second Mountain, Third, and Peter's. Several minor 
ridges might be mentioned. The mountains in the north- 
ern part of the county, are elevated from 600 to 900 feet 
above the Susquehanna. 

At Harrisburg, the great limestone valley crosses the; 
Susquehanna river. Here commences the most productive 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 119 

limestone soil, and continues, in an easterly direction, 
through the county. Here, the bounties of Providence are 
diffused in great abundance, and the labourer is richly re- 
warded lor his industry. On the margin of the Susque- 
hanna is a portion of river bottom, which vies with the 
limestone in lertility of soil. 

All the mountains of this county, north of the Blue Moun- 
tain, contains anthracite coal. Owing to its distance from 
the river, and the expense of transportation, very little has 
yet been mined. Operations have been commenced on the 
Third Mountain, Short Mountain, and Bear Mountain. The 
coal is valuable, and appears to possess some of the quali- 
ties of the bituminous. It has less specific gravity than the 
anthracite of Mauch Chunk, Pottsville and Wilkesbarre, 
kindles more readily, and burns with greater flame, but 
emits less sulphureous acid than the bituminous. It makes 
a delightful fire for the grate, and will be usefully employed 
in manufiictories. 

The western termination of the numerous veins of coal, 
which may be traced all the way from Mauch Chunk, by 
Pottsville, is apparently, on the abrupt termination of Short 
Mountain, vi'here it is lost in Lyken's valley, 11 miles from 
the Susquehanna river. Heie an extensive coal field has 
recently been opened. The mountain, at its termination, 
gradually spreads out into a wide and extensive plain, per- 
fectly level. Suddenly, this plain sinks in the centre, 
forming a deep and swampy valley, extending five or six 
miles. Numerous springs flow into this valley, unite their 
waters, and produce a stream, which is supposed to have 
existed at a very early period. This passage is called Bear 
Gap, and is the only passage by which Bear Valley can be 
entered. Numerous veins of coal are found on both sides 
of the Gap. It is said, that the coal in this gap is so abund- 
ant, and the veins so numerous and extensive, that 28 can 
be opened sufficiently large to allow separate companies of 
miners on each vein, working over each other's heads all 
the way up the mountain. This is supposed to be one of 
the most extensive deposits of coal in the world; and its lo- 
cation promises a facility of mining, not elsewhere to be 
met with in the state. 

The county is watered by the Susquehanna and several 
of its tributaries. The Susquehanna extends along the 
western boundary, for 48 miles. 



120 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

Dauphin county has the advantage of a number of im 
portant turnpike roads. Three lead from Harrisburg to 
Philadelphia, two from Harrisburg to Pittsburg, and one 
from Harrisburg to Baltimore. A railroad runs from Har- 
risburg to Lancaster. Two fine bridges cross the Susque- 
hanna, one at Duncan's Island, and the other at Harrisburg. 
Both are of wood, supported by stone piers, and protected 
by roofs. 

Settlements in this county were commenced chiefly, by 
emigrants from Germany and Ireland, and their descendants 
compose the majority of population. 

The prevailing religious denominations are German Re- 
formed, German Lutheran, Methodist, and English Pres- 
byterians. 

Numerous manufacturing establishments have been 
erected. 

The exports of the county consist of various agricultu- 
ral articles, which are sent to the markets of Philadelphia 
and Baltimore. A great deal of traffic is carried on by 
means of rafts. They are so numerous, that in the spring 
the river seems, at times, almost covered with them. The 
appearance is very beautiful, and affords a striking evidence 
of the flourishing state of the country. They carry coal, 
lumber, vegetables, and various other commodities to mar- 
ket. It ought, however, to be stated that these rafts come 
from regions 150 miles above Dauphin county. 

Harrisburg is the seat of justice for the county, and capi- 
tal of the state. It is situated on the east bank of the Sus- 
quehanna, 97 miles from Philadelphia. 

If, my dear pupils, you wish to form a just conception 
of the capital of your state, imagine yourselves riding along 
from Carlisle to Harrisburg, looking at the fields of grain 
and grass, the orchards, the different soils of limestone and 
slate, the streams, the meandering Conedogwinit, the vil- 
lages, pleasant farm houses, etc. You see no prospect of 
any change, till unexpectedly, there is a bend in the noble 
turnpike, and suddenly a charming scene, one of the most 
beautiful combinations of nature and art, bursts upon your 
delighted view. You see the Susquehanna, studded with 
islands, the rafts descending the stream, the noble bridge, 
and the more distant town. But the most prominent ob- 
jects, and those which strike the eye of the beholder with 
peculiar admiration, are the beautiful state buildings. They 



DAUPHIN COUNTY. 121 

Stand on a delightful green eminence, fronting the river. 
In the centre is the capital, a magnificent structure of brick; 
at each end is a house for the principal offices of state; a 
little more distant is the arsenal, and in front are the river 
and bridge. 

The eastern part of the town is located on a high bank 
between the river and the Paxtang creek; the lower part lies 
on the level plain, more remote from the river. The ap- 
pearance is handsome, the streets are spacious, and inter- 
sect each other at right angles. In the centre of the town 
is a large square, and in the centre of this square, is the 
market. 

Harrisburg contains public buildings belonging to the 
town, the county and the state. Those belonging to the 
town and county are a large court house, a stone jail, a 
Lancasterian school house, two banks, and a number of 
churches, belonging to different denominations. 

The state house is an elegant building, and stands in the 
highest part of the town. The main building is 180 feet 
front, 80 feet deep, and two stories high. The front en- 
trance is by a circular portico. The whole building is sup- 
ported by six Ionic columns of stone, painted white, four 
feet in diameter, and 39 feet high. From the cupola may 
be seen one of the finest landscapes in the state, embracing 
a wide extent of cultivated country. In one direction is 
the bridge, in another an undulating or broken region of 
country; near the river are small fields or richly cultivated 
gardens, and farther distant, is a picturesque and romantie 
view of the river, winding its way through the mountains. 

In 1830, the population of Harrisburg, including M'Clays- 
burg, was 4307. 

*' Harrisburg was founded in 1785, by Mr. John Harris, 
who inherited the ground on which it stands from his father. 
The elder Mr. Harris was a native of Yorkshire in England, 
born in humble life, who rpigrated to America, soon after 
the first arrival of William Penn, bringing with him the 
whole of his property, 16 guineas. His first employment 
here, was in clearing away the wood, and in grubbing the 
streets of Phdadelphia. Being an enterprising man, he 
soon became an active pioneer, and with the fruits of his 
industry, commencing a trade with the Indians, penetrated, 
by degrees, to the westward, until he reached the Susque- 
hanna, on the left bank of which river he built himself a 



122 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

cabin, and sat down permanently, at the spot where the 
town of Harrisburg now stands. His first purchase of land 
was a tract of 500 acres, bought of Edward Stephen, for 
190 pounds. He opened a profitable commerce with his 
red neighbours, who were numerous about the Paxtang creek, 
and had several villages in the vicinity, along the Susque- 
hanna shore. It happened one day, that a number of his 
Indian customers, who had been drinking freely, called for 
an additi(mal supply of rum. On Mr. Harris's refusing to 
gratify them, they dragged him from his hut, and bound 
him to a mulberry tree, at the foot of which he now lies 
buried. They declared their intention to burn him alive, 
and bade him prepare for instant death. Dry wood was 
gathered, and fire in readiness to kindle it. The yells of 
the exasperated savages echoed along the shores, while with 
demoniac gestures, they danced aiound their victom. In 
vain he supplicated for mercy, and offered every thing in 
exchange for life. The fire was brought to the pile, and 
about being applied, when a band of friendly Indians burst 
from the forest, and set him at liberty. His liberators were 
conducted by his negro slave Hercules, who, on the first 
demonstration of violence, had fled to a neighbouring Indian 
village for succour. Mr. Harris gratefully emancipated the 
slave, to whose presence of niind and active zeal he was 
indebted for life, and the descendants of Hercules inhabit 
the town now built around the spot where he so nobly ac- 
quired his freedom. Mr. Harris, in order to perpetuate the 
remembrance of this deliverance among his descendants, 
directed that after his death, his body should be deposited 
at the foot of the mulberry tree. The trunk of that tree is 
still standing, which flourished in full vigor when William 
Penn first landed on the shores of the Delaware." 

In what part of the state is Dauphin county ? How bounded ? 

What river forms the western boundary ? How is Harrisburg situa- 
ted? Which way is Millersburg from Harrisburg? Middletown? 
Halifax ? etc. 

What is the soil and surface of Dauphin county? 

What mountains do we traverse in crossing this county ? 

What part of the county has a limestone soil ? 

What is the soil bordering on the rivers? 

What kind of coal has been found abundantly in this county ? 
Why has but little of itbeen mined? 

What quahties does the coal in this county possess? 

What is the western termination of the numerous veins of coal t 



SCHUYLKILL COUNTY. 123 

Where is Bear Valley ? Bear Gap ? 

What number of veins may be opened in Bear Gap ? 

What situation, in relation to each other, can the miners occupy? 

What is the comparative magnitude of the singular deposit of coal 
here alluded to ? 

What facility of mining does the peculiarity of its location promise? 

What turnpikes extend from Harrisburg in different directions? 

What number of bridges cross the Susquehanna in this county! 

By whom was Dauphin county settled! 

Prevailing religious denominations? 

To what place are the exports of this county sent! 

What are the exports? 

By what means is a great deal of traffic carried on! 

For what is Harrisburg distinguished! How situated! 

If you wish to form a just conception of the capital of your state, 
how must you imagine yourselves situated ? 

What scene suddenly bursts upon your view, as you approach Har- 
risburg! Most prominent object in this scene! 

To whom do the public buildings of Harrisburg belong! 

Mention the public buildings belonging to the town and county! 
, What account can you give of the state house! 

What objects are seen from the cupola! 

When was Harrisburg founded! By whom! 

At what time did the elder Mr. Harris emigrate to Philadelphia! 
His first employment! 

In what direction did he penetrate from Philadelphia! 

At what place did he build himself a cabin! 

Tell the story, relating to Mr. Harris and the Indians! 



SCHUYLKILL COUNTY. 

This county you will find covered, in its whole extent, 
with ridges of mountains; having, with a very few excep- 
tions, a rocky, sterile soil, but highly distinguished on ac- 
count of its mineral wealth. But for this last mentioned 
circumstance, it might, for years, have remained an unbro- 
ken wilderness. The abundance of coal which the moun- 
tains contain, and for which the improvements of the river 
have provided a market, has greatly increased the value of 
the county. During the year 1834, 224,000 tons of coal 
were sent from the mines, which at an average price of $6 
per ton, would amount to $1,344,000. But coal is not the 
only source of wealth in this county; the manufacture of 
iron is carried on very considerably. 

The county is watered by streams which intersect it in 
different directions. The principal is the Schuylkill, from 
which the county takes its name. 



124 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

The Schuylkill canal extends through this county to Port 
Carbon, two miles above Pottsville, and is connected with 
the coal regions by a railroad. Among the numerous im- 
provements resulting from the discovery of coal in this 
county, the railroads are not the least considerable. The 
aggregate length of these roads, with their numerous laterals, 
Would probably amount to nearly 100 miles. 

Considering the mountainous surface and thin population 
of this county, the roads are very numerous. In all direc- 
tions they may be seen winding through the valleys, around 
the mountains, and in some places boldly ascending the 
steep acclivities. A turnpike from Reading passes through 
the county. 

Near the Schuylkill Gap, upon Mine Hill, is to be seen 
one of those singular curiosities, called a rocking-stone. 
The stone is flat, 18 feet long, 3 feet wide, and so exactly 
poised on another, tliat the slightest touch can make it rock 
like a cradle. 

Orwigsburg, the county town, stands on an elevated 
situation, 7 miles above the Schuylkill Water Gap. The 
scenery here is delightful. The valley in which the town 
is located, is surrounded by lofty, beautiful and productive 
hills, and the neighbouring country, though composed of 
massy eminences, is well cultivated and fruitful. The town 
contains 150 or 200 dwellings. The public buildings are a 
courthouse, a jail, an academy, and a Lutheran church. 
The courthouse and academy are each surmounted by a 
cupola. 

Pottsville is an interesting, and important place, highly 
distinguished on account of the very uncommon rapidity of 
its growth, and the prospect of its forther increase is in the 
highest degree flattering. The public buildings are an Epis- 
copal church, a meeting-house, and a bank. The front of 
the bank is constructed of cast iron. Many of the buildings 
are three stories high, costly, and very handsome. The 
place contains a great number of stores, manufactories, etc. 
Indeed, almost every species of business, necessary to a 
flourishing village, seems hereto be in successful operation. 
The town is remarkably healthy, and as an evidence of this 
fact, it is stated, that when the census was recently taken, 
only three of the inhabitants were confined to their beds by 
sickness, and that not a single deaf, dumb, or blind person 
was in the borough. The inhabitants deserve credit for 
their attention to Sabbath Schools. In 1833, there were 



SCHUYLKILL COUNTY. 125 

four schools, containing 475 scholars, 72 teachers, and li- 
braries worth $200. 

Here, in the interior of the state, more than a hundred 
miles above tide-water, there is a fleet of upwards of 400 ves- 
sels, a fleet more formidable than that which bore the Greeks 
to the Trojan war, and composed of vessels, the smallest of 
which is almost as large as that in which Columbus ventu- 
red to cross an unknown ocean. In one week 78 vessels 
cleared from Pottsville, carrying to the seaboard the rich 
mineral treasures of the district, and during the same period 
22 arrived from Philadelphia, laden with the luxuries of 
every clime! 

*' Pottsville has every requisite for becoming a great city, 
an uninterrupted navigation by the canal to Philadelphia, 
coal enough to supply the world for thousands of years; 
and if the resources of the country shall be developed \\ ith 
the same untiring activity by the next, as it has been by the 
present generation, Pottsville, bold as the assertion may 
seem, will rival the large cities of the seaboard in popula- 
tion and wealth."* 

*' Those who delight in mountain scenery, would be 
fully gratified with a ride up the railroad, from Port Clinton 
to Tamaqua, which runs its distance by the sides, or in the 
neighbourhood, of hills lifting their wood-crowned summits 
above the clouds. Port Clinton is 7 miles southeast from 
Orwigsburg. Tamaqua is situated in a dell, in a wild 
mountainous and barren country. But the coal trade is here 
so vigorously carried on, that the town flourishes like the 
rose in the desert." 

The singular curiosity of a coal mine on fire, may be seen 
in the neighbourhood of Port Carbon. . It is supposed that 
fire was communicated to the vein some years ago, since 
which it has been in a state of ignition, smoke having been 
seen issuing from the ground in various places. The fire 
is distinctly visible from the surface of the ground, by means 
of a shaft. 

You are aware, my dear pupils, that the mountains are 
sometimes devastated by tremendous fires. It is stated, that 
in 1833, the woods on the mountains of Schuylkill, North- 
umberland, and several adjoining counties were on fire to a 
dangerous and alarming degree. The following extract, 

* Hazard's Register. 



126 GEO&RAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

from a Pottsville paper, will enable you to form some jusi 
conception of the appearance of such a fire: 

" A grand and imposing- spectacle, which language is in- 
adequate properly to describe, was presented to our view by 
the near approach of the fires which have been ravaging and 
devastating, with considerable fury, the surrounding districts 
of country. In the afternoon, the close proximity of the 
devouring element, was announced by dense volumes of 
smoke, which were wafted to us by an easterly current, 
and completely enveloped and overshadowed our borough. 
The thick and murky vapor assailed our eyes and nostrils 
with much annoyance, and hung our streets with dark, in- 
tense, and almost impenetrable folds. The blood red disc 
of the sun, descending in the west, and the empress of the 
night, rising majestically in the east, with an equally lurid 
aspect, glared ominously from the firmament, through the 
impending mass. As the evening advanced, the Sharp 
Mountain exhibited the scene to which we have alluded; 
the broad acclivity of which, ascending to a lofty eminence, 
became enveloped in sheets of flame. Crowds of our in- 
habitants, both male and female, flocked from their homes 
to witness the sublime and brilliant spectacle. At first, the 
mountain seemed covered with myriadsof flaming torches — 
anon the conflagration spreads — the flames were seen kind- 
ling, leaping, and running in various directions; rapidly 
ascending the tail forest trees, and encircling them with fiery 
wreaths, grappling and enclosing the giants in their glitter- 
ing coils, etc. All this added to the grandeur of the splendid 
pageant. I'he inhabitants of Port Carbon were called forth 
to protect their houses and railroads from the impending 
destruction. In spite of all their efforts, about one hundred 
and fifty yards of Mill Creek Railroad was consumed." 

The Schuylkill valley is deserving of some little notice, 
on account of the quantities of coal found here. It is situated 
between Sharp Mountain and Mine Hill, and extends about 
12 miles, in an easterly direction, from Pottsville. The 
Schuylkill river, here a small stream, winds through the 
valley; the railroad, which leads from the mine, follows the 
windings of the river. The veins of coal are cut transverse- 
ly by deep ravines, which extend from the road in a north- 
erly direction to Mine Hill. By means of these ravines, 
the mines are drained, and the miners are not subjected to 
the necessity of working under water. 



S(^HUYLLILL COUNTY. 127 

In what part of the state is Schuylkill County? How bounded? 

How is Oiwigsburg situated? Pottsville? Describe the Schuylkill 
■river. What mountains traverse this county? 

What is the surface? Soil? 

On what account is this county distinguished? 

The principal sources of wealth? Internal improvements^ 

What do you recollect about the roads'? 

What curiosity upon Mine Hill? 

Which is the county town? 

What is the scenery around Orwigsburg? Public buildings? 

By what means has Pottsville become distinguished? 

What facts can you mention, to prove that Pottsville is a healthy 
place ? 

Distance of Pottsville from tide water ? Size of the fleet ? 

What number of vessels cleared from Pottsville in one week ? 
What number arrived during the same period ? 

What singular curiosity may be seen near Port Carbon ? 

What do you recollect about the fires in the mountains? 

Where is the Schuylkill valley ? 

On what account is it deserving of notice ? 

LEHIGH COUNTY. 

The natural features of this county are strongly marked. 
The surface is variegated, and the scenery bold and very 
picturesque. It lies mostly in the great Kittatinny Valley, 
the soil being about equally divided between the limestone 
•formation and the slate. The Blue Mountain extends along 
the northern boundary, and the South Mountain passes 
'through the southern section of the county. The soil is 
generally good ; the liuiestone very productive ; and al- 
though the surface is broken by mountains and deep ravines, 
it is well suited to the culture of grain, grass, and fruits. 

The county is well watered. The principal streams are 
the Lehigh, the Litde Lehigh, and the Jordan creek. The 
Lehigh creek has its rise about five miles from AUentown, in 
.3 or 4 beautiful springs of the finest water, all within 3 or 4 
feet of each other. The water rises perpendicularly, and 
ilows so copiously as to form a stream sufficient to turn a mill 
of 2 or 3 pairs oi' stones, about 300 feet from the :springs. 
The Lehigh Canal extends along the northeastern boundary 
of the county, following the course of the Lehigh river. 
JN'ear AUentown is a large basin. 

Lehigh county is generally well supplied with bridges. 
At Allentown, a beautiful chain bridge has been thrown 



128 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

across the river, over the Jordan creek at the same place, 
a stone bridge is now in progress, 186 feet in length; and 
over the Lehigh, has recently been erected an excellent 
frame bridge. 

On the Jordan creek, about two miles from AUentoWn, is 
a remarkable limestone cave, near which is a spring, that 
has attracted much attention, called the Cavern Spring. 

Lehigh contains some flourishing towns and villages, viz. 
Millerstown, Fogelsville, Segersvilie, Lymanville, etc. Al- 
lentown, the seat of justice, is situated at the junction of 
the Jordan creek and Little Lehigh, near the Lehigh river. 
It contains a spacious court house, a prison, a handsome 
academy, three churches, and some splendid three story 
brick buildings, with granite fronts, containing stores, 
vicing with those of the metropolis. Here, also, is a Col- 
legiate Institution, styled the North American Academy, 
which commenced operations in 1836. The buildings, be- 
longing to this institution, are large and elegant, on the 
eastern declivity of the hill on which Allentown is situated, 
and present a most beautiful, and brilliant appearance, as 
we enter the town from the east. The court house is built 
of hewn limestone — population about 2700. 

Elevated above the surrounding country, Allentown is 
remarkably healthy ; and, as a country residence, is one of 
the most delightful in Pennsylvania. Splendid Water 
Works have been erected, about half a mile from the town 
by means of which water from a cool spring is forced up 
a hill to the height of 140 feet, and distributed in cast iron 
pipes through the town. 

"The scenery, around Allentown, is highly picturesque, 
and a walk to the Big Rock, on Lehigh Mountain, about 
three miles, from the town, amply repays the adventurer, 
by the grandeur, variety, and extent of the scenes there 
spread out before him. A thousand feet below, are seen . 
well cultivated farms, stretching as far as the eye can reach, 
except on the north, where the vision is limited by the 
Blue Mountain. The river, after forcing its way through 
the Mountain, may be traced meandering through a coun- 
try beautifully diversified, until it washes the base of the 
hill on which the town stands. Then uniting with several 
smaller streams, it rushes along the foot of the Lehigh 
Mountain, and is lost in the distance. 

^♦Allentown is one of the oldest settlements on the 



LEHIGH COUNTY. 129 

Lehigh river, and has been the scene of many bloody deeds. 
It was here that Col. Bird displayed such heroism, in the 
early wars with the Aborigines ; it was here, during the 
Revolutionary War, that the bells, which chime so merrily 
at Christ Church, were concealed by the Americans ; and 
it was here, at a still later period of our national existence, 
that the insurrection, in which John Fries bore so con- 
spicuous a part, was fomented, and smothered in its 
birth." * 

The population of Lehigh county is mostly German. 
The prevailing religious denominations are Lutherans, Pres- 
byterians and Moravians. Here are 25 churches, and in 
«very township, primary schools are established. 

The county contains three forges, four furnaces, three 
powder mills, 40 or 50 grist and merchant mills, 8 or 10 oil 
mills and 15 clover mills. The exports consist, chiefly, of 
agricultural articles, which are sent to market by the Lehigh 
river. A large bed of copper has been discovered. The 
county abounds in iron ore and some of the best quality 
has recently been discovered. 

In what part of the State is Lehigh county ? How bounded ? 

In what part of the county is Allentovvn ? Frysburg ? etc. 

Describe the Lehigh river ? What mountains in this county ? 

What is the surfatje ? Scenery ? 

In what valley -is the county situated ? Soil ? 

How is the county watered ? 

* "Fries was arrested, carefully tried hy the court, found guilty of 
high treason, and sentenced to be hung. The death warrant was signed 
by the president of the United States, and the day was fixed, on which 
he should die. But just before the day came, some people went to 
the President, and asked him to permit a woman to see him, who had 
something to say to him. The President consented to see her ; and 
a few kind friends went with her to his house. The President arose 
to receive her, but what was his surprise, to see this woman with ten 
children, all kneeling before hira in tears I They were the wife and 
ten children of John Fries, kneeling and weeping, and interceding 
for the life of their father, who was condemned to die ! The Presi- 
dent stood in amazement, and the big tears came gushing down 
fais cheeks, and his voice was so choaked he could not speak. With 
his eyes streaming with tears, and his hands raised toward heaven, 
he pushed away out of the room. Oh, what a moment of anxiety! 
Would he hear the petition or would he let the man die ? In a few 
moments he returned with a paper in his hand. It contained a full 
and free pardon, for Mr. Fries. He gave it to Mrs Fries, and she went 
away, and returned joyful to her iiome, having her husband with her." 
-^Todd'a Lectures to Children. 

12* 



130 Northampton county* 

What account can you give of the Lehigh creek ? What canal in 
the county ? 

How supplied with bridges ? 

What noted spring in the county ? 

Seat of justice ? How situated ? Public buildings ? 

Of what material is the court house built? 

Population of Allentown ? 

What account can you give of the Water Works of Allentown? 
What is the scenery around Allentown ? 

What important event took place at Allentown? 

Tell tlie story contained in the note ? 

Prevailing religious denominations in the county? Number of 
churches ? What schools are established ? 

NORTHAMPTON COUNTY. 

This county, on account of its superior canal, agricultu- 
ral improvements, and mineral treasures, is one of the most 
interesting in the State. In regard to surface, it is highly 
diversified, more so than that of any part of Pennsylvania, 
or even of the United States. South of the Kittatinny, lo- 
cally called the Blue Mountain, is a pretty extensive portion 
of the Kittatinny Valley. The very peculiar formation of 
limestone and slate, v^iich is found in this valley from the 
Delaware river to the Susquehanna, is remarkably striking 
here. The limestone borders on the South Mountain, the 
slate on the Kittatinny, meeting in the centre of the valley. 
In the region of the former, we find the most superior soil, 
in the latter the bolder features of nature. Both are highly 
productive in grain, fruits, and pasturage. From many of 
the higher eminences of the South Mountain, the cultivated 
regions, in beauteous prospect, spread before the eye like a 
vastly extensive garden. 

That portion of the county northwest of the Kittatinny, 
being diversified with mountainous ridges and valleys, varies 
in fertility. But the soil, north of the Blue Mountain, even 
where susceptible of cultivation, is much inferior to that 
which is south. Indeed, the mountain forms a line of de- 
marcation between two climates. Vegetation is about a 
fortnight earlier on the south side of the mountain than on 
the north. This part of Northampton, however, is but 
little improved, and, with few exceptions, may be pro- 
aOunced an almost unbroken wilderness. About one-fourth 



i 



NORTHAMPTON COUNTY. 131 

of the county is cultivated, — about one-third is susceptible 
of cultivation. 

The county is well watered by the Delaware, Lehigh, 
and their tributaries. It is bounded on the east by the 
Delaware river, which has, for thirty-five miles, a very mean- 
dering course through a mountainous country. The Lehigh 
is emphatically the river of this county, having within its 
limits, many of its sources, and the greater part of its 
course. 

The principal canal in this county is the Lehigh Canal, 
which follows the windings of that river from Mauch 
Chunk to Easton, where it meets the State Canal and Mor- 
ris Canal. 

Various roads intersect the county in different directions. 
A turnpike from Philadelphia passes through it, and con- 
tinues to the banks of ihe Susquehanna river. A number 
of good bridges have been erected. The principal are those 
over the Delaware at Easton, over the Lehigh at the same 
place, and at Bethlehem, at the Lehigh Gap, Lehighton, 
Mauch Chunk, etc. 

Water Gap is the name given to the place where a river 
passes through a mountam. In this county, the two most 
distinguished, are the Delav^-are and Lehigh. They are 
objects of curiosity, conduce greatly to elevate and expand 
the mind of the beholder, and must be interesting to all 
who are fond of whatever is grand, picturesque, or sublime 
in nature. Here, the passing travellers stop, and in solemn 
silence, gaze on the exhibitions of nature's grandeur. The 
Delaware Gap is very crooked, the stream winds round 
the mountain, which seems to have been rent asunder for 
the express purpose of forming a passage for the assembled 
waters of the river. The cliffs rise perpendicularly from 
the water's edge to an elevation of 1,200 feet. TheLehigli 
Water Gap is a straight passage, and in height and steep- 
ness somewhat inferior to the preceding. Here, we are 
struck with the wildness, as well as the grandeur of the 
scene. The mountain is cleft quite down to the base, and 
a promontory of rocks and woods rises to an elevation of 
about 1,000 feet. On the right bank, the rocks are very 
precipitoHS, and are called the pulpit rocks; on the left, 
they recede a little, leaving a small strip of river bottom. 
The Lehigh Canal passes through this gap. Between the 



132 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLAANIA. 

Lehigh and the Delaware Water Gap is another gap, called 
the Wind Gap through which the turnpike road passes.* 

In a frightful glen, of about 100 feel deep, is Moor's Cas- 
cade on Moor's Run. It consist of two perpendicular falls 
of about 40 feet each. The first descends into a basin, the 
second is dashed upon broken rocks. Just below is the 
Turn Hole, a whirlpool on the river Lehigh. On each side, 
perpendicular cliffs rise to an elevation of 150 feet. 

But few manufacturing establishments are erected in this 
county. Ordinary articles are made, and much flax and 
wool are converted into a dirrable kind of clothing by the 
industry of females. The chief articles of exportation are 
flour, whiskey, lumber, coal, and iron. Large beds of iron 
ore have been discovered, and in the county are 2 furnaces 
and 3 forges. Near the Delaware Water Gap, are the works 
of the Pennsylvania Slate Company, where large quanti- 
ties of school and roofing slate are procured, manufactured, 
and sent to market. 

The inhabitants of this county are mostly Germans, and 
are distinguished for industry, sobriety, and enterprise. 
But in the subject of education, they manifest but little in- 
terest. There is, however, a college at Easton, an academy 
at the same place, and another at Stroudersburg. The col- 
lege at Easton, called Lafayette, was founded in 1832, is 
under the superintendence of George Junkin, D. D. and 
has four instructors and 72 students. The Moravians have 
been long distinguished for attention to the rudiments of 
education, and their schools at Bethlehem and Nazareth 
have been extensively patronized. Primary schools are 
now established in some parts of the county. 

* At various cross roads, in ttis vicinity, are finger boards, point- 
ing to the Wind Gap, painted, probably, by some, w^ho understood 
German better than English, and spelled in every way that letters 
could be arranged, so as to produce the sound of the name, as pro- 
nounced in the neighbourhood, such as Wind Cap — Wint Cap- 
Wind Gab — Vint Cat, etc. 



NORTHAMPTON COUNTY. 133 

MAUCH CHUNK. 




Under this head, we will endeavour to give you some 
little account of the famous Coal Mountain, and the great 
improvements to which it has given rise. In this moun- 
tain is found a very important part of the coal formation of 
our state. The coal is said to have been accidentally discov- 
ered by a hunter of the back woods. The hunter's name 
was Philip. He took up his residence in this mountain, 
and having erected a rude dwellmg for his family, resorted 
to his rifle as "a means of support. He killed bears and 
deer, carried them to a neighbouring store, aud received, in 
exchange, groceries, and other articles. On one occasion, 
his family were without food, and having spent the whole 
day in an unsuccessful attempt to procure game, he began 
to think of returning home. As the night approached, and 
he was walking pensively along, distressed for himself and 
family, he stumbled against a black substance, which from 
its appearance, he was induced to examine. Having heard 
that coal was formerly found in that mountain, he was 
cheered with the hope, that this might prove to be the 
very coal so long sought for. He took it to his dwelling, 
and the next day showed it to a gentleman, residing in that 
vicinity. Exceedingly interested about it, the gentleman 
took the specimen to Philadelphia, where on examination, 
it was found to be the real stone coal, and honest Philip 
was rewarded for the discovery. 



134 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

" This discovery excited much interest, and immediately 
after, in 1792, the first T^ehigh Coal Company was formed, 
the mine was opened, but so great were the difficulties of 
transporting the coal to market, that the enterprise was 
abandoned. The mine remained in a neglected state till 
1806, when some coal was brought to Philadelphia, but on 
trial, was thought to be rather an extinguisher of fire than 
an aliment. After two or three unsuccessful attempts to " 
improve the method of bringing the coal to market, a gen- . 
tleman, being encouraged to hope that he should succeed 
in igniting it, procured a cart load for his furnace, but wasted 
the whole of it, without getting up the requisite heat. An- 
other cart load was obtained, the hands spent a w^hole night 
in endeavouring to make a fire in the furnace, and then left 
it in despair. One of the workmen, having left his jacket, 
returned in about half an hour, and was surprised to find 
the furnace glowing with a white heat. The other hands 
were summoned, and, on experiment, they found that the 
heat of the furnace was abundantly sufficient for their 
operations. The fire was replenished, and as letting it 
alone had succeeded so well, the method was tried again 
with the like result. Thus encouraged, another company 
was formed, vigorous and successful efforts were made to 
improve the navigation of the Lehigh, and, in 1820, coal 
was sent to Philadelphia by artificial navigation, and sold 
at the door of the purchaser, for $8 50 per ton. 

" While efforts were making to improve the navigation 
of the river, a large quantity of coal was uncovered; and 
the process has been continued, till the excavation has a 
superficial area of 10 acres, varying from 30 to 70 feet deep. 
A turnpike was made from the river to the summit of the 
mountain, a distance of nine miles. 

" In 1820, the two companies were amalgamated under 
the title of Ihe ' Lehigh Coal and Navigation Company;' 
and in 1827, the company commenced the great work of 
excavating the Lehigh Canal, which was completed in 
1829. 

" Mauch Chunk Mountain has been explored in various 
directions, and coal has been discovered, through its whole 
extent. The principal mine, however, is at the summit, 
and the stupendous masses of coal, being uncovered, are 
worked in the open air as in a stone quarry. The strata of 
coal, separated by thin seams of slate, are found in almost 



NORTHAMPTON COUNTY. 135 

every varied form, that imagination can paint. It is suppo- 
sed, that some mighty force has shaken the mountain, and 
disturbed the original formation. 

You may very naturally inquire, my dear pupils, what 
has caused this immense deposit of coal. But this question 
cannot, probably, be very satisfactorily answered. We 
would only remark, that it is generally believed, that the 
coal is a vegetable deposit, composed of immense masses of 
timber, collected by powerful currents of water, 

"Hopes of procuring coal from a part of the mountain 
near to navigation, induced the company to excavate a tun- 
nel 200 feet below the precipitous ridge. 'I'his tunnel is 
16 feet high, 8 feet wide, and 790 feet in length. Here 
they found coal, but for various reasons, it was deemed in- 
expedient to work it. The expenditure, however, has not 
been in vain, as the tunnel serves to drain the great coal bed 
above it. 

" Becoming satisfied of the inexpediency of making fur- 
ther progress with the tunnel, the company constructed a 
railroad from Mauch Chunk village to the great mine, a 
distance of nine miles. Besides this, there are various 
branch roads. Upon this road, coal is conveyed to Mauch 
Chunk on cars, containing one ton and a half of coal. 
Fourteen of these cars are connected together, and conduct- 
ed by a single man. 'J'he observer is much interested in be- 
liolding the successive groups of wagons, moving rapidly in 
procession without any apparent cause. They are heard at 
a considerable distance, as they come thundering along with 
their dark burdens, and give an impression of irresistible 
force. At a suitable distance follows another train, and 
thus from 300 to 350 tons are daily discharged into the 
boats. The empty cars are drawn back by mules. But 
they ride down. They are furnished with provender, and 
four of them, being inclosed in one pen, are mounted on cars. 
Seven of these cars are connected in groups, so that 28 
mules constitute the party. Their heads being directed 
downwards from the mountain, apparently surveying the 
fine landscape, they move rapidly along the inclined plain 
with a ludicrous gravity. 

" The mules readily perform the duty of drawing up the 
empty cars, but having experienced the comfort of riding 
down, they seem to regard it as a right, and very reluctantly 
descend in any other way. 



136 GEOGRAPHY OP PENNSYLVANIA. 

"A very extensive coal mine has been discovered upon 
Nesquihoning Mountain, four miles distant from Maucb 
Chunk. In the aggregate thickness of the strata, it far sur- 
passes the coal at Mauch Chunk, and may be wrought with 
much greater facility. 

"As an evidence of the expedition with which labor is 
performed at Mauch Chunk, the following statement of one 
day's work is inserted. Three hundred and forty tons of 
coal are quarried at the mines, loaded, and brought on the 
railroad nine miles, unloaded from the wagon, and loaded 
into the boats. The boats for this coal are all built the 
same day; and 4,000 feet of timber are sawed in one day 
and night." 

The Lehigh Coal and Navigation Company have recent- 
ly extended their improvements of the navigation up the 
Lehigh river to Stoddertsville. The other great improve- 
ments, made by this Company, consist in villages. These 
are Mauch Chunk, Lowrytown, Anthracite, Nesquihoning, 
and South Easton. 

Mauch Chunk village is 11 miles above the Lehigh Water 
Gap, on the west bank of the Lehigh river between rocky 
mountains, that rise in some parts precipitously, 800 or 
1000 feet above the stream. To procure places for the 
dwellings, they were compelled to break down the adjacent 
rocks, and fill up a part of the ravine of Mauch Chunk creek. 
The company have erected about 120 dwellings, of which 
all, except those occupied by the superior agents and a few 
others, are of the plainest style, designed only for protection 
against the inclemency of the weather. The methodists 
have erected a meeting house, the only one in the village. 

The company have, heretofore, from motives of policy, 
excluded, from their premises, all persons not immediately 
under their control. By this means, they have been ena- 
bled to enforce the practice of morality. Tippling houses, 
and the retail of ardent spirits are prohibited. Drunkards 
are not suffered to remain. Those, who abuse or neglect 
their families, or exercise cruelty to animals, are liable to 
be dismissed. They have a physician, to whom the inhabi- 
tants pay a stipulated sum, and he attends on the sick, with- 
out further compensation." 

Easton is a borough, the seat of justice, and the largest 
town in the county. It is 56 miles from Philadelphia, sit- 
uated at the junction of the Delaware and Lehigh rivers, 



NORTHAMPTON COUNTY. 137 

and Lehigh Canal, State Canal, and Morris Canal. The 
intermingling of the waters of these canals, forms a delight- 
ful pool. The town extends from the mouth of the Lehigh 
along the banks of the Delaware, for half a mile, to Bush- 
kill creek, being mostly encompassed by water. The situa- 
tion of the court house is very handsome, being in the cen- 
tre of the town, surrounded by a public square. The other 
public buildings are five churches, an academy, and Lafay- 
ette College. The buildings are chiefly of stone or brick. 
An elegant wooden bridge is erected over the Delaware, 
another over the Lehigh; and there are two bridges over the 
Bushkill creek. 

Lafayette College, is on a lofty and commanding emi- 
nence on the north side of Bushkill creek, and presents a 
front of 112 feet, overlooking the borough, the rivers, the 
canals, and the rich and flourishing country, for many miles 
in extent. 

Easton is surrounded by very romantic scenery, bold, 
broken, and picturesque in a high degree. The soil is pro- 
ductive, and being well cultivated, affords a charming pros- 
pect. As the eye glances along the river bottoms, the hills, 
and the acclivities of the mountains, orchards, farm houses, 
farms, fields, and meadows commingle in every direction. 
Bushkill creek is said to be one of the finest streams in the 
Union. By its rapid, precipitous, and meandering course, 
the town is well supplied with mill seats. 

In business, wealth, and enterprise, Easton is inferior to 
few towns in the state. It contains a great variety of manu- 
factories, a library, consisting of 13,000 volumes, an inte- 
resting cabinet of minerals, and two banks. The town is 
supplied with water from a spring, which is about a mile 
distant. South Easton is a flourishing town with two grain 
or flower mills, two saw mills, a cotton factory, and about 100 
dv/elling houses. Other factories are about to be erected. 

Bethlehem, situated on the north side of the Lehigh 
river, was the first considerable Moravian establishment in 
the United States. It is located on a gentle rising hill, and 
surrounded by a charming country. A fine stream and the 
Lehigh canal pass through the town. It contains about 120 
houses and 800 inhabitants; and is plentifully supplied with 
water, from a spring at the foot of the hill. The water is 
forced up a perpendicular height of 114 feet, thrown into a 
cistern, and then conducted through the town. 
13 



138 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

Bethlehem has a large church, a Female Semhiary, a 
school for boys, two Infant Schools, a Widows' House for 
the support of mdigent widows, and a Sisters' House for 
the support of unmarried indigent females. The Female 
Seminary contains one hundred scholars, and, on an ave- 
rage, seventy boarders. The building is large and conveni- 
ent, and a great degree of neatness and order is everywhere 
conspicuous. In front of the edifice is a fine promenade, 
where the young ladies exercise in damp weather; back of 
it, is a pleasant and delightful play ground and garden. The 
school is under the superintendence of the elders of the so- 
ciety. 

" The Moravians are distinguished by some inviting pe- 
culiarities, among which their simplicity of manner, and 
love of music are the most remarkable. In the latter, al- 
most every member is a performer. In the burial of their 
dead, they observe ceremonies different from those of the 
country in general. When a death occurs, part of the choir 
ascend the steeple, where a requiem is played, and the me- 
lancholy notes, as they fall upon the ear in a calm morning, 
are peculiarly solemn and impressive. The corpse is ex- 
posed in the " corpse house," a small plain stone chamber 
overhung by weeping willows, for the space of three days; 
at the expiration of which it is borne to the grave, accompa- 
nied by music. The grave yard is divided into plats, by 
avenues planted with trees; and males, females, adults, chil- 
dren, and strangers have appropriate and separate resting 
places. Each grave is marked with a small marble slab 
about a foot square, on which, according to the regulations 
of the society, the name, age, and place of birth of the de- 
ceased alone are noted. 



In what part of the state is Northampton countyl How bounded ? 

What are the principal rivers? 

Describe the Delaware. The Lehigh. 

What range of mountains extends through the county ? 

In what part of the county is Easton ? 

In what direction is Bethlehem from Easton? Nazareth? Mauch 
Chunk? Williamsburg? Lehighton? 

On what account is Northampton one of the most interesting coun- 
ties in the state ? 

What is the surface ? Soil ? 

How much later is vegetation on the north, than on the south side 
of the Kittatinny Mountain ? 



NORTHAMPTON COUNTY. 139 

What portion of this county is cultivated ? What portion is sus- 
ceptible of cultivation^ 

What canal follows the windings of the Lehigh in this county"? 
What other canals ? 

What are the principal bridges ? 

Mention four items relative to the Delaware Water Gap. Six re- 
lating to the Lehigh. 

Name of a passage between the Delaware Water Gap and the Le- 
high ? 

What amusing fact is mentioned in the note ? 

Mention four items relating to Moor's Cascade. Three relating to 
the Turn Hole. 

What are the manufactures of this county? 

What mineral is found here in large beds ? 

What proportion of the population is German ? For what distin- 
guished ? 

What literary institutions can you mention ? 

What people have long been distinguished for attention to the rudi- 
ments of education ? 

By whom was coal discovered at Mauch Chunk Mountain ? 

Tell the story of honest Philip. 

In what year was the first Lehigh Coal Company formed ? 

Why was the enterprise of the Lehigh Coal Company abandoned ? 

Until what year did the mines remain neglected ? 

What opinion was formed of the coal, that was brought to Philadel- 
phia, in 1806 ? 

What do you recollect about tha trial of this coal in a furnace? 

What was the effect of this encouraging experiment ? 

What event, in relation to the Coal Companies, took place in 1820 ? 

What important work did the Lehigh Coal and Navigation Compa- 
ny commence in 1827 ? 

When was the Lehigh Canal finished ? 

In what variety of form are the strata of coaJ found? By what oc- 
casioned ? 

What has probably caused this immense deposit of coal? 

Whctt induced the Lehigh Coal and Navigation Company to exca- 
vate a tunnel in Mauch Chunk Mountain ? Length of the tunnel? 

What railroad has been constructed by this Company ? 

Describe the method of conveying coal from the mountain to Mauch 
Chunk village. 

By what means are the empty cars drawn up the mountain ? How 
do the mules descend? 

On what mountain, near Mauch Chunk, has a very extensive coal 
mine been discovered ? 

What villages belong to the Lehigh Coal and Navigation Company ? 

How is Mauch Chunk village situated ? 

By what means were places procured for dwellings at Mauch 
Chunk? 

What number of dwellings have the Company erected at Mauch 
Chunk ? 

What persons have the Company excluded from their premises? 

What practice haxe -they, by this jn.eans^ been ejsahjejd Jto enforce ? 



140 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

What are some of the regulations at Mauch Chunk? 

What town is the seat of justice for this county? 

How is Easton situated? What are the public buildings? What 
bridges at Easton ? 

How is Lafayette College situated ? 

What is the scenery around Easton ? 

What is remarked of the wealth, etc. of Easton? 

How is the town supplied with water ? 

What peculiarity can you mention, in relation to Bethlehem ? How 
situated ? How supplied with water ? 

What literary and benevolent institutions in Bethlehem ? 

What can you tell about the the Female Seminary ? 

For what peculiarities are the Moravians distinguished ? 

What ceremonies do they observe, in the burial of their dead ? 



LUZERNE COUNTY. 

We here find ourselvevS in a romantic region of country, 
abounding in high, rocky mountains, and intervening fertile 
valleys. The valleys are highly improved; the mountains 
are not susceptible of improvement. The principal moun- 
tains are the Wyoming, Hell Kitchen, Lackawanna, Su- 
garloaf, etc. The Wyoming consists of tvi'o ranges which 
extend along on each side of the Susquehanna bottoms, en- 
circling the valley of Wyoming. The Sugarloaf Mountain 
is a very singular elevation, having a circular base, and 
terminating in a point. It rises from the centre of Nesco- 
peck Valley, and is so named, in consequence of its resem- 
bling a sugar loaf in form. 

The principal valleys are Wyoming, Lackawanna, Nesco- 
peck, etc. "The Susquehanna River running a southeast 
course from the New York State line, breaks through the 
mountains, and enters the Valley of Wyoming. Within 80 
rods after its debouch into the Valley, it receives from the 
east, the Lackawanna Riverj then turning to the southwest, 
the Susquehanna flows in a placid sheet of water, but once 
slightly interrupted by falls, twenty miles to Nanticoke. In 
this distance of twenty miles, the mountains recede; so that, 
in the centre, from the top of one mountain to the top of the 
other, on the opposite side of the river it is about six miles. 
At Nanticoke they approach each other quite near, are pre- 
cipitous and high; here too are the Nanticoke Falls. The 
water, compressed between these giant, and rugged hills, 
tumbling and dancing over the dam now erected at the Falls, 



ttJXERNE tOVNTir. 141 

renders the scene strikingly grand. The Valley on both 
sides of the river, has a large extent of bottom land, or river 
flats. On the west side, about the middle of the valley, the 
flats extend two miles back. These lands are extremely 
rich, easy to work, and almost inexhaustible in their pro- 
ductiveness. The uplands in the Valley, though not natu- 
rally so fertile, or easy of tillage, yet, under good manage- 
ment, are made to produce wheat, corn, oats, and grass, in 
abundance. Many are of opinion that Wyoming Valley 
was once a lake, and the hypothesis is not without nume- 
rous facts and cogent reasons to sustain it, 

*'There are three or four points of view from which the 
Valley may be seen to advantage. From the top of Inman's 
hill, half way from Wilkesbarre to INanticoke: from the top 
of Ross' hill, half way from Kingston to Plymouth: from 
Prospect-rock on the mountain southeast of the borough of 
Wilkesbarre. The summer view from the first, presents 
below, the large sheet of water, formed by the Nanticoke 
dam; the hills and dales of Hanover and Newport, farm 
houses and orchards, highlands covered with sheep, mea- 
dows alive with cattle, the flats waving with grass. On the 
opposite side of the river are the rich Shawney flats and the 
thriving village of Plymouth. To the northeast, you be- 
hold the spires and v/hite houses of the borough — the long 
bridge with its noble arch, the Susquehanna like a beautiful 
riband, chequered with islands, winding slowly through the 
charming vale, as if it lingered, loath to leave a spot never 
equalled in loveliness. How tame are words ! How in- 
adequate all power ©f expression ! to give even a faint idea 
of the loveliness of this summer prospect! Campbell's 
painting from the bright regions of fancy, with a rainbow 
for his pallet, could convey no just impression of its sur- 
passing beauty. 

"Rich and beautiful as is the prospect on the surface, it is 
cold, and lifeless, compared with the riches or beauty of what 
lies, beneath the soil. Visit the Plymouth mines. Visit 
Bennett's great mine at Pittston. Drive your carriage be- 
tween the pillars of anthracite in the great Baltimore mine; 
see the glittering coal reflecting all the hues of the rainbow^ 
consider how necessary to human happiness, to prosperity, 
even to existence. See the inexhaustible stores, the bound- 
less deposits, and say if another spot so rich and beautiful 
exists on earth. Wyoming Valley is about twenty miles in 
13* 



142 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

length, and may average four miles in width. At a greater 
or less depth all this has layers of coal beneath the surface." 
Wyoming valley literally reposes on a bed of coal; for 
dig any where in the mountains, on the flats, or in the bed 
of the river, and coal is soon found. 

In this county is found the Wyoming or Lackawannocfc 
coal field, which is very extensive, including about one- 
third of the territory of liuzerne. It passes through the in- 
terior of the county, from the border of Columbia on the 
west, to Wayne on the east, and is encircled by two parallel 
ridges of mountains, its form being that of an ellipse. Its 
length is about 68 miles, having an average breadth of about 
five miles. 

" The existence of coal in this region was known at a very 
early day, long before it was discovered in either of the 
other coal fields. It was used before the period of the Revo- 
lutionary War, and its present and prospective value may 
have tended to stimulate those long and direful conflicts, for 
the jurisdiction of the soil, during which the valley was 
strewed with the bones of its patriotic defenders. In the 
years 1775 and 1776, several boat loads of coal were 
taken down the Susquehanna, and hauled to the United 
States' armory at Carlisle, for the manufacture of arms. In 
1768, it was first used by a blacksmith who came into the 
Wyoming valley as a Connecticut settler, and having suc- 
ceeded in burning it in his shop, it soon became the only 
fuel used by blacksmiths in the valley. It was first used in 
grates, in 1808, and now forms one of the most important 
articles of commerce in the county." 

And now, my dear pupils, if you would like to take an 
imaginary excursion with me up the Susquehanna to Lu- 
zerne county, and there, in the township of Plymouth, en- 
ter a coal mine, I will endeavour to give you a description 
of it. You must imagine an extensive coal region, contain- 
ing 75 acres, being 27 feet in thickness. In front of this 
tract is a long, deep hollow, through which passes a small 
stream, and the road leading to the mine. The coal strata 
present an elevated front, rising from the margin of the 
stream. The miners excavate the bank, and in this subter- 
raneous abode, employ themselves in removing the coal. 
At certain distances, they leave large blocks to support the 
roof; which is composed of solid limestone rock, covered 
with gravel, clay,, and probably, with another stratum of 



LUZERNE COUNTY. 143 

coal. As they penetrate the mine, it is found, that the coal 
increases in quantity, and improves in quality. Twenty 
years have elapsed since mining operations have been com- 
menced in this place, and for the last eight or ten years, 
thousands of tons have been annually removed, and yet, 
wonderful to relate, they have not excavated one acre of the 
stratum of coal. The rule for calculating coal in mines, is 
to allow one cubic yard to the ton. According to this rule, 
there are 5,000,000 of tons in this single bed; and should 
50,000 tons be removed yearly, it would require 100 
years to exhaust the mine. 

Luzerne is chiefly watered by the Susquehanna and its 
tributaries. The natural curiosities consist, principally in 
water-falls, of which there are several. One of the most 
considerable is Buttermilk Falls in Falls township, where 
the creek pours its waters over a precipitous rock 30 feet 
high. The name has arisen from the foaming of the waters, 
which produces a colour resembling buttermilk. The 
streams are all rapid and furnish excellent mill seats. 

It is supposed, that about one-twelfth of this county is 
cultivated, and about one-third is fit for cultivation. Some 
portions of the remaining two-thirds might afford subsist- 
ence for sheep and large flocks of cattle. 

The only important minerals, yet discovered in the coun- 
ty, are anthracite coal and iron ore. Two forges have been 
erected for the manufacture of iron. 

Wilkesbarre is the county town. It was so named to 
perpetuate the memory of Wilkes and Barre, two distin- 
guished British statesmem, friendly to the Americans during 
the Revolution. It is beautifully situated in the valley of 
Wyoming, on the east side of the Susquehanna, regularl)^ 
laid out, and has a fine square in the centre. In this square 
are the court house, county oflSces, and jail. The town con- 
tains besides an academy, a Methodist and Presbyterian 
meeting house, and an Episcopal church. 

" There is not, perhaps, in Pennsylvania, a more desira- 
ble place of residence than Wilkesbarre. Situated in a fer- 
tile and healthy valley, surrounded by mountains, on the 
banks of one of the noblest rivers in North America, it com- 
bines the means of comfort, and the charms of the most de- 
lightful and picturesque scenery, with the prospect of active 
and lucrative trade." 

Carbondale, a flourishing village, situated at the termina- 



144 GEOGRAPHY OP PENNSYLVANIA. 

tion of the Lackawaxen Railroad, has sprung up within a 
few years, and now contains two thousand inhabitants. It 
is the seat of the coal mine of the Hudson and Delaware 
Canal Company, and owes its origin to the extensive ope- 
rations carried on here, in excavating the coal and preparing 
it for market. It is said that 500 tons of coal are daily 
taken from this mine, carred over the Lackawaxen Moun- 
tain, and discharged into the North river, a distance of 
about 120 miles. The expenditures of the company on their 
road, canal, and mines, exceed $2,000,000. 

The coal mines, here, are very interesting, and are thus 
described by a traveller. " They are about 12 or 20 in 
number, the entrance to which, is by an aperture of about 
ten feet square, in the bank or high ground, the extent of 
which varies according to the operations carried on in them. 
The one we entered was more than 600 feet in length. 
Taking lighted candles with us, we followed our guide 
through a narrow subterraneous passage, in a horizontal 
direction, meeting the smaller cars, conveying the coal out, 
and others returning empty, and passing- over deep wells or 
shafts, sunk into the mines below us, till we came near the 
extremity, where the work of excavation was going forward. 
The mines branch off in different directions as the veins 
run, and in each of these were men at work, some lying flat 
on their sides, and with their pick axes, delving into the 
coal beds — others drilling holes above, for the operations of 
blasting with gunpowder: — others breaking coal to pieces 
and lading it into cars, and others pushing and drawing these 
out to the mouth of the mine — a small rail-tract being laid 
its whole length. All is a busy, bustling, strange and infer- 
nalish sort of scene, the glimmer of lights at a distance — 
the smell of gunpowder, and the vapour arising from it — 
the dark swarthy fellows at work, and the general darkness 
that reigns on every side, where it is not broken by some 
flickering lamp or candle, all conspire to make a strange 
impression on the mind of a stranger not altogether free 
from fear."* 

The county is crossed by a number of roads, turnpikes, 
and others. One stage from Philadelphia to Buffalo, and 
one from Washington to Sackett's Harbour pass through 
Wilkesbarre. Travellers, either in the pursuit of pleasure 

* E[azard*s Register* 



LUZERNE COUNTY. 145 

or health, would find it delightful to bend their course to- 
ward this inviting spot. And, however much they might 
be charmed with the scenery in the country through which 
they pass, they would linger long in this more charming 
valley. Here they could inhale its invigorating air, exam- 
ine its mineral treasures, and admire its varied, and pic- 
turesque scenery. 

So inviting have been the delightful valleys of Luzerne, 
so rich and productive the soil, that generation after gene- 
ration have, with bitter and cruel contentions, endeavoured 
to get possession of it. Not only the Indians of the forest, 
but the Connecticut emigrants, have moistened it with their 
blood. The only civil v\ ar, which marred the peace of 
Pennsylvania, while a colony, occurred in this delightful 
region. And to their praise be it remembered, that during 
the Revolution, no portion of the slate displayed more 
heroism, nor suffered so much, as did the people of Lu- 
zerne. 

*' In story, Wyoming is no less rich, than in natural beau- 
ty and mineral treasures." And though we have dwelt 
long in this delightful valley, yet we think the following 
account of the Massacre of Wyoming too interesting to be 
omitted. It is dated Wilkesbarre, September, 1834. 

"After one of the most romantic rides through the valley 
of Wyoming, where the powers of language fail to convey 
the enjoyment that every passenger must partake, and that 
we deeply felt, we arrived at Wilkesbarre at 10 A. M.; and 
after a little refreshment, set out to visit the monument at 
Wyoming, six miles distant. We there found a very oblig- 
ing old man, who took pleasure in communicating to us all 
the information in his power. I'he monument is in the 
highest spot of ground in the neighbourhood, and erected 
over the bones of the unfortunate sufferers in the Massacre 
of Wyoming, 54 years ago. We visited, also, an old lady, 
remarkably intelligent for her age, whose maiden name was 
Butler. Her father was one of the first forty, who ventured 
from Connecticut into the valley, (then a wilderness,) and 
afterwards removed their families. There they built the 
fort, called Fort Forty, and hearing that the Indians were on 
the eve of attacking them, they retired into it, but; became 
impatient of their confinement, and in the ardor and rashness 
of youth, more than 300 sallied forth to meet the enemy, 
leaving the w^omen and children behind them. They 



146 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

chose the place where the monument now stands, on ac- 
count of its elevation, for waiting the approach of the In- 
dians, whom they did not suspect of being so near. But the 
bloodthirsty men of the forest, bribed and instigated by the 
English, were concealed among the bushes, and rushed upon 
them with overpowering force. A few escaped and ran to 
the river, but some, even of these, were shot while they 
were swimming over; the rest were cruelly slaughtered. 

" The Inflians removed their own slain, but left the others 
lying on the field, and hastening to the village, burnt down 
every dwelling, and then proceeding to the fort, (in which 
was, at that time, the old lady, above mentioned, then a 
young girl,) ordered every individual, infants, mothers, and 
aged women, to leave it in three hours, upon pain of death. 
Easlon, 40 miles distant, was the nearest settlement, and 
thither the poor creatures bent their steps. IMany, how- 
ever, perished on the way. At the end of six weeks some 
of the men ventured back to the scene of their woes, hoping 
to find the bones of their slaughtered companions, but to 
their surprise, every corpse was as perfect, as on the day of 
the massacre. They had dried, and could be recognised. 
They were interred on the spot, and fifty years afterwards, 
the bones were taken up to be enclosed in a durable box, 
and placed in one corner of the monument with due solem- 
nities. Three hundred skulls were found, the most perfect 
of which have been preserved, and kept in a little building 
close by, for the inspection of visiters. We examined them, 
and found on every one the marks of the scalping knife. 
In some were large round holes, made by the bullets, in 
others fractures and holes, two inches in diameter, the work 
of the murderous tomahawk. We were exceedingly inte- 
rested by all we saw and heard, and the old lady appeared 
gratified by the interest we exhibited."* 

* Count Zinzendorf. — In the summer of 1742, Count Zinzendorf, of 
Saxony, arrived in the Valley of Wyoming, on a mission to the In- 
dians. This nobleman is believed to be the first white person that 
ever visited this lonely spot. He v/as the reviver of the ancient church 
of the United Brethren, and had given protection, in his dominions, to 
the persecuted Protestants, who had emigrated from Moravia, and 
who, two years before, are said to have made the first settlement in 
PennsylvEftiia, » 

The Count, in his zeal for the conversion of the Indians, had formed 
a resolution to visit the Shawanese; and, although he had heard much 
of their ferocity, yet, he proceeded on his projected plan. He arrived. 



LUZERNE COUNTY. - 147 

In what part of Pennsylvania is Luzerne? How bounded? What 
river intersects this county ? Describe the Tunkhannock creek. 
Lackawannock. Ncscopeck. 

How is Wilkesbarre situated? In what direction is Wyoming from 
Wilkesbarre? Pittston? Carbondale? 

What are the natural features of this county? 

Mention some of the mountains. Valleys. 

How is Wyoming Valley situated? Dimensions? 

How is this Valley bounded? What river passes through it? 

What coal field lies in this county? 

What portion of this county does the Lackawannock coal field in- 
clude? By what is it encircled? Dimensions^ At what period was 
the existence of coal known in the Lackawannock field'? 

In what year were loads of coal, from this field taken to Carlislel 
For what purpose*? 

and pitched his tent on the banks of the river, a little below the town. 
At this, the Shawanese were alarmed, and a council of chiefs having 
assembled, the declared purpose of Zinzendorf was deliberately con- 
sidered. To these unlettered cliildren of the wilderness, it appeared 
altogether improbable, that a stranger should brave the dangers of the 
ocean, three thousand miles broad, for the sole purpose of instructing 
them in the means of obtaining happiness after death, and that too, 
without requiring any compensation for his trouble and expense. 
Thinking, therefore, that his real object must be a selfish one, and, 
such as would, probably, be very injurious to themselves, they con- 
cluded to assassinate him. 

Zmzendorf was alone in his tent, seated upon a bundle of dry weeds 
which composed his bed, and engaged in writing v^'hen the assassins 
approached to execute their bloody commission. It was night, and 
the cool air of September had rendered a small fire necessary to his 
comfort and convenience. A curtain, formed of a blanket and hung 
upon pins, was the only guard to the entrance of his tent. The heat 
of the small fire had roused a rattlesnake which lay in the weeds not 
far from il. The reptile, to enjoy the fire more effectually, had 
crawled slowly into his tent, and passed over one of his legs, undis- 
covered. Without, all was silent, except the gentle murmurs of the 
river, at the rapids, about a mile below. 

At this moment, the Indians softly approached the door of the tent, 
and slightly removing the curtain, contemplated the venerable man, 
too deeply engaged in the subject of his thoughts to notice either their 
approach or the snake, which lay extended before him. At a sight 
like this, even the heart of a savage shrunk from the idea of commit- 
ting so horrid an act, and quitting the spot, they hastily returne3 to 
the town, and informed their companions, that the Great Spirit pro- 
tected the white man, for they had found him, with no door but a 
blanket, and had seen a large rattlesnake crawl over his legs, without 
attempting to hurt him. This circumstance, together with the arrival 
of some friends soon after, procured Zinzendorf the friendship and 
confidence of the Indians, and, probably contributed essentially to- 
wards inducing many of them, at a subsequent period, to embrace the 
Christian religion. — Hazard's Register. 



148 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

What number of acres does the coal field, here described, contain 1 
Thickness of the stratum ? Of what is the roof composed ? By what 
supported ? Number of tons in this single mine ? 

What natural curiosities in this county ? What portion of the 
county is susceptible of cultivation ? 

What important minerals have been discovered here ? 

Which is the county town ? 

Why was Wilkesbarre so named ? 

How situated ? How laid out ? Public buildings ? 

How is Carbondale situated ? 

Mention five items relating to Carbondale. 

What contentions have taken place in the valley of Wyoming ? 

Conduct of the people of Luzerne, during the Revolution ? 

Give an account of the Wyoming Massacre? 

Tell the story of Count Zinzendorf contained in the note ? 



NORTHUMBERLAND COUNTY. 

Here we again find ourselves in a mountainous region, 
abounding with anthracite coal, and containing some beds 
of iron ore. The Mahanoy coal fields of this county are 
very extensive, stretching from the Mahanoy Mountain, 
throng] I an extensive valley into Schuylkill county, a dis- 
tance of not less than 50 miles. The western termination 
of this coal field is within eight miles of the Susquehanna 
river. The vicinity of the river, the convenience of trans- 
portation, and the superior quality of the coal, afford to this 
region, very great advantages. 

Some of the mountains, in this county, are Line Moun- 
tain, Mahanoy, Shamokin, and Limestone Ridge. 

Northumberland is abundantly watered, being washed 
by the Susquehanna 20 miles, by the West Branch 20, and 
by the North Branch 10. Besides, it has a number of 
large creeks. The State Canal follows the Susquehanna 
through the county. 

The county has a large portion of river bottom, and, 
notwithstanding its numerous mountains, it has much good 
soil, and some of the very best. 

A turnpike road intersects the county, and a railroad ex- 
tends from Pottsville to Sunbury, near the junction of the 
Susquehanna with its western branch. A branch railroad 
is to be constructed to Danville. This road is called the 



NORTHUMBERLAND COUNTY. 149 

"Girard railroad," in memory of the late Stephen Girard 
of Philadelphia. 

This county was originally settled by English ; but the 
persevering, industrious, and hardy Germans are now in 
possession of the soil. 

The Presbyterians are the most numerous religious de- 
nomination ; but there are Lutherans, German Reform- 
ed, Methodists, Baptists, and Quakers. The nbimber of 
churches is about 30. There are Tract Societies, a county 
Bible Society, and numerous Sunday School Associations. 
At the town of Northumberland is an academy, and many 
schools are established through the county, and continued 
throughout the year. Four weekly newspapers are printed, 
two in the German language, and two in the English. 

The scenery of Northumberland is picturesque, abound- 
ing in the beautiful and sublime. A number of flourishing 
villages adorn the Susquehanna. They are delightfully 
located, and in beauty and comfort vie with the most in- 
teresting towns in the interior of the Union. One of these 
pleasant towns is Northumberland, situated at the conflu- 
ence of the north and west branch of the Susquehanna, 
It contains about 150 dwellings, three churches, an acade- 
my, a town house, a market house, and a bank. Being thus 
favourably located for business, Northumberland will, proba- 
bly, become one of the most important inland towns in the 
United Slates. A beautiful bridge across the Susquehanna 
connects this town with Union county ; another leads to 
Sunbury. The Shamokin Dam, across the river here, 
which is 2783 feet long, has been twice re-built, and still 
retains a very precarious existence. 

Sunbury, the county town, is a very pretty place, beau- 
tifully situated on the east side of the Susquehanna, below 
the Shamokin Dam. It contains 250 dwellings, three 
churches, a court house, etc. The bridge, which connects 
this town with Northumberland, is about a mile above the 
town, and is in two parts, separated by an island. 

Milton is a flourishing village, 14 miles north of Sunbu- 
ry. Here is a bridge across the Susquehanna, a Lancaste- 
rian school, and a very flourishing academy. 

In what part of the state is Northumberland county ? How boun- 
ded ? How is Sunbury situated ? Which way is Northumberland 
from Sunbury ? Snyderstown ? What are the principal rivers ? 
14 



150 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

Through what counties does the northern branch of the Susquehanna 
pass ? The western branch ? Describe the Mahanoy creek, etc. 

What are the principal minerals found in this county ? 

What is the extent of the Mahanoy coal fields ? 

What are some of the mountains ? 

How is the county watered ? What canal in the county ? 

What is the soil ? What railroad has been constructed ? 

By whom was the county originally settled ? 

What people now possess the soil ? 

What religious denomination is most prevalent ? 

How many churches in the county? 

What benevolent associations ? 

What schools have been established ? 

What number of newspapers is printed ? 

How is the town of Northumberland situated ? 

What bridges have been erected at Northumberland ? 

Which town is the seat of justice / How located ? 

What buildings does Sunbury contain ? 

COLUMBIA COUNTY. 

Columbia is situated on the Appalachian Mountain, and 
is richly supplied with mineral treasures. Anthracite coal 
is found on that part which is east of the Susquehanna, and 
iron ore, of a superior quality, has been discovered in all 
parts of the county. 

The surface is greatly diversified by mountains, hills, and 
valleys, and the more productive river bottoms. 

The North Branch, and the State Canal pass through 
the southeastern part of the county. At Berwick, there is 
a very fine bridge, and another at Danville. Says Dr. 
Matheson, in his visit to the American churches, *'I found 
Danville in a very interesting condition, as it regarded reli- 
gion. One or two revivals of religion have lately taken 
place. Many, in the best informed, and most influential 
classes of society, have bowed to the authority of Christ, 
and professed to be his disciples." 

*' The population amounts to 1500. There are three 
places of public worship ; viz. Methodist, Presbyterian, 
and Episcopalian. About 850 persons attend church of 
whom 325 are communicants. There are, besides, three 
Sabbath Schools, containing 320 children, and a temperance- 
Society, which is prosperous. Ardent spirit is not used in 
the town, either by religions, or irreligious people." 



PIKE COUNTY. 151 

The inhabitants are mostly Germans, attend to agricul- 
ture, and export wheat, clover seed, whiskey, pork, etc. 

Danville, the county town, is situated on the North 
Branch and contains a court house, jail, a prison, an aca- 
demy, etc. 

In the county are twenty-two places for public worship, 
nearly half of which belong to the Methodists. Here are 
Temperance Societies, a Bible Society, a Missionary So- 
ciety, and Sunday Schools are established in various places. 
Three newspapers are published in the county. 

In what part of the state is Columbia county ? How bounded ? 
In what part of the county is Danville ? In what direction is Jersey- 
town from Danville ? Catawissa ? Washington ? etc. 

What river passes through the southeast part of the county? 

Describe the North Branch. 

On what mountains is the county situated ? 

What minerals are found here ? What is the surface ? 

"What canal passes through the county ? 

What bridg'es are mentioned ? 

By what people is the county mostly inhabited ? Employment ? 

Coui^y town ? How situated ? 

Ml ation eight items rekting to Danville ? 

How many places of public worship does the county contain ? 

Religious denomination most prevalent ? 

What benevolent institutions are mentioned ? 



PIKE COUNTY. 

Here we find ourselves in an uncultivated region with 
few inhabitants, and still fewer improvements. 'J'he most 
prominent natural features of this county, are a mountain- 
ous surface, and a rocky, barren soil, covered, in some parts, 
with valuable timber. The inhabitants depend, mostly, on 
their forests for support. Along the borders of the Dela- 
ware, however, the aspect of things is totally different. 
Here we find extensive, fertile valleys, thickly populated, 
and highly cultivated. 

Milford, the seat of justice, has a high location on the 
banks of the Delaware ? Here the eye embraces a wide 
extent of country. We see the bridges, the river, the 
highly cultivated alluvial flais on its borders, and extensive 
portions of New York and New Jersey. 



152 dfiOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

The inhabitants are chiefly employed in preparing tim- 
ber for the market, and in rafting it down the Delaware. 
There are, however, in the vicinity of Milford, extensive 
glass works. 

The only church in the county, in 1832, was one at 
Milford. There are two academies, one at Milford, and one 
at Dingman's Ferry, and recendy, efforts have been made 
for the establishment of primary schools. 

In what part of the state is Pike county ? How bounded ? 

In what part of the state is Milford ? 

What river washes the eastern boundary ? 

What canal follows the windings of the Delaware river? 

Describe the principal creeks. 

What is the surface of the county ? The soil ? 

From what do the inhabitants derive their principal support ? 

Which town is the seat of justice ? How situated? 

What forms the chief employment of the inhabitants? 

What manufactories are situated on the Delaware, near Milford ? 



WAYNE COUNTY. 

We are here brought to the northeast corner of the state, 
and to a region of country highly elevated. The surface is 
greatly diversified. Its most prominent features are exten- 
sive uplands, long narrow valleys, and a few lofty eminen- 
ces. The elevation of these uplands is estimated at about 
1,300 feet above tide water. 

The two most noted mountains are Moosic and the Sugar- 
loaf, which last is a spur of the range washed by the Dela- 
ware river on the east. From the summits of these moun- 
tains, the prospect is delightful, embracing an extent of 
country as far as the eye can reach. The height of these 
eminences is 600 feet above the uplands, making a total ele- 
vation of 1,900 feet above tide water. 

The county is highly ornamented by a great number of 
beautiful lakes. With only one exception, these elegant 
little sheets of water are seen to sparkle in every township. 
From fifty to three hundred acres are covered with these 
crystal fountains. Many of them are the sources whence 
flow some of the most important streams in the county. 

In the neighbourhood of the mountains, the elevations are 
bold, and many of them very precipitous. Moosic Moun- 



WAYNE COBNTY. ISiJ 

tain, like an immovable barrier, extends along the western 
border of the county. In some places, lofty elevations of 
massy rocks, spread along the shores, rising almost perpen- 
dicularly from the water's edge. 

The streams of this county are numerous. Some of them 
are tributary to the Susquehanna, but the principal ones 
flow into the Delaware. The Lackawaxen, a rapid stream, 
intersects the county, flowing through a deep, narrow, fer- 
tile valley, and is the grand recipient for most of the other 
streams, conveying their waters to the Delaware. Middle 
creek is remarkable for its rich, extensive, and fertile val- 
leys, and for the high cataract, over which it is dashed, with 
inconceivable velocity, into the Lackawaxen. The Waal- 
lenpaup.-ck river is an interesting object. At first, the 
course is very rapid, then almost imperceptible, till the bed 
is suddenly depressed, and a deep chasm, of seventy feet, 
is presented, down which the water is precipitated with 
great violence. Then sweeping furiously over a bed of 
rocks, it rushes forward, and within the distance of a mile 
and a half from the mouth of the creek, dashes over three 
successive falls, the aggregate height of which is 330 feet. 

In this county is the Lackawaxen Canal. It commences 
at the termination of the Delaware and Hudson Canal at 
M'Carty's Point, and unites with the railroad at Honesdale. 
Wayne is remarkable for the number of its turnpikes. Six 
roads of this kind, completed and in good order, traverse 
the county. 

Bethany, the seat of justice, has a fine elevated location, 
on a commanding eminence, which declines on every side, 
except the north, and overlooks the adjacent country for a 
considerable distance. It is a beautiful little village, distin- 
guished for the taste and elegance displayed in many of the 
buildings. It contains fifty dwellings, a court house, a 
Presbyterian church, and an academy. Near the town are 
some glass works, where from ten to twelve thousand boxes 
of window glass are made annually. 

Honesdale, situated at the termination of the railroad and 
commencement of the canal, a few miles east of Bethany, 
has become a flourishing town. It is the grand depot for 
merchandise and produce for a large extent of country. 
Upwards of 200 cars arrive here daily from Carbondale, 
loaded with coal and lumber. 

The forests of this county aflford a variety of wild fruits 
14* 



154 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA.' 

among which are cherries, plums, grapes, gooseberries, 
whortleberries, cranberries, shellbarks, chestnuts, butter- 
nuts, and beachnuts. The sugar maple abounds, and some 
families make between 300 and 700 pounds of sugar annu- 
ally. The inhabitants derive their greatest source of wealth 
from their forests. 

In what part of the state is Wayne county. How bounded ? 

In what part of the county is Bethany ? In what direction is Hones- 
dale from Bethany ? Damascus ? Ciarkesville ? etc. 

What are the most prominent features of this county ? 

What is the elevation of Moosic Mountain and Sugarloaf ?, 

By what natural objects is this county highly ornamented T 

What peculiarity relates to the Lackawaxen river ? 

For what is Middle creek remarkable ? 

What do you recollect about the Waallenpaupack ? 

What canal has been constructed in this county ? What railroad?" 

How many turnpikes traverse the county ? 

Which town is the seat of justice ? How situated ? Public build- 
ings ? 

Boxes of window glass made at the glass works ? 

What number of cars pass daily from Carbondale to Honesdale ? 

What kinds of wild fruits do the forests of this county afford ? 

SUSQUEHANNA COUNTY. 

This county forms the northeast corner of the state and 
belongs, mostly to the secondary formation. Indeed, it is 
a question not yet settled by competent geologists whether 
the whole of it does not belong to that formation. Near 
the eastern line of Susquehanna, anthracite coal has been 
found, which crosses, at one point, the Susquehanna coal 
field not far from Carbondale, in Luzerne county. 

The surface of this section of the state is moderately un- 
even; and the hills, running parallel with the streams, are 
adapted to grain, and may be cultivated quite to their sum- 
mits. Some elevations have the name of mountains, such 
as Ararat, Elk, and Lackawannock; but their ascent is 
gradual, and soil excellent. Elk Mountain, in the eastern 
part of the county, so called because it was once the 
favourite resort of that animal, is a short, but bold, and con- 
spicuous ridge. It is broken, by a slight indentation in the 
middle, into what is termed the North and South peaks. 
The north is the most elevated, being upwards of 2000 feet 



SUSQUEHANNA COUNTY. 155 

above tide water, and affords, from its summit a prospect of 
the most magnificent description; requiring only to be 
known, to turn aside the passing traveller, to revel on its 
surpassing loveliness and grandeur. Overlooking the Lack- 
awanna and Moosic, which are in the immediate vicinity, 
the view is terminated, southwardly, by the Blue Ridge, 
in which the Wind Gap and Delaware Water Gap are both 
distinctly visible. Eastwardly, the beholder can distinguish 
the extension of the Blue Ridge in New Jersey and New 
York, stretching upwards along the Delaware, and still be- 
yond, another range, until it is lost in the greater elevation 
and bolder view of the far famed Katskill. On the north 
and west, the view takes in the whole of that immense 
tract of beautiful undulated table land, comprehended in the 
bold sweep made by the Susquehanna river. Here it first 
enters Pennsylvania at the northeast extremity, and then, 
as if deterred by a succession of mountain fastnesses through 
which it would have to pass, or repentant at leaving its pa- 
rent state, it turns again across the line, and does not reenter 
Pennsylvania for many miles. Here is presented a com- 
bined view of all the beauties of mountain and rural scenery. 
Bold mountain bluffs indent the extreme distance along the 
wide and graceful sweep of the river. On the intervening 
hill sides, which rise apparently one above another, like an 
amphitheatre, until the horizon is reached, various tracts of 
cultivated ground appear, as if cleft out of the deeper green 
of the forests; while here and there, gleaming in the light 
of the setting sun, many a crystal lake is seen adding life 
and brilliancy to the picture. 

While summer is shedding its softening influence, while 
fanned by the breath of heaven, who can stand on such an 
eminence, as is here attempted to be described, and look 
unmoved on the scene before him? Who can gaze on the 
cloud-embosomed summit of the distant mountains, the 
waving bed of green, with its softened lines and shining 
waters, and not feel a deep, but indefinable sense of the 
rich loveliness of nature? 

This county is admirably watered. The north branch of 
the Susquehanna runs across the northeast corner of the 
county, and then makes a sweep nearly around three sides 
of it. The other principal streams are Mishoppen, Tunk- 
hannock, W^yalasing, Conewacta, Salt Lick, Choeonut, 
Drinker's and Lake creeks. These, having their sources 



156 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

among the undulations of the table land included in the , 
" great bend" made by the rivers, as before described, flow! 
northwest and south as from the centre to the circumference 
of a circle. 

The Tuscarora tribe of Indians, on their emigration 
northward, made this rej^ion their residence for a number 
of years. Near Snake creek is a salt spring, from which 
these and a portion of the Delawares who cotemporane- 
ously inhabited the country about Depont, on the Dela- 
ware river, derived their supply of salt. The saline vein 
being very small, and enveloped in a larger one of fresh 
water, an attempt was made a number of years since, by 
Mr. De Heart, to obtain an additional supply by boring. 
This design was subsequently prosecuted for several hun- 
dred feet, by Archolas Biddle, Esq. whose property it be--] 
came, together with a large tract of land in the vicinity..' 
In boring, no increase of salt water was obtained; butai 
stream of carbonated hydrogen gas has been introduced i 
into the spring, which, together with its saline and other 
peculiar properties, has rendered it medicinal to a beneficial 
extent. It has already become a place of very considerable 
resort. 

Small lakes of fine limpid water, filled with a great va- 
riety of fish, are found in almost every township. On the 
margin of one of these beautiful sheets of water, in the 
western parts of the county, is the elegant mansion of Dr. 
Rose. He was an early settler, owning extensive tracts of 
land in the vicinity, and now cultivates one of the largest 
farms in Pennsylvania. He aided much in bringing this 
county into notice, and inducing its rapid settlement. The 
late Henry Drinker, another extensive land proprietor in 
this region, also contributed very largely to the same object. 
This he effected, by opening roads, and especially by his 
judicious and lenient course of conduct toward the early 
settlers. 

This county produces various specFer^ grain. Some 
however, are much more successfully cultivated than others. 
Buckwheat grows extremely well; but the seasons are too 
cold and short for Indian corn. The natural grasses are 
often great impediments to the cultivation of grain. They 
grow here most luxuriantly, and, as is believed, spontane- 
ously. Large tracts, that have never been cultivated, yield 
abundant crops of herd's grass, clover, etc. 



SltSQtJEttANkA COUNTY; 157 

The winters, in Susquehanna, are comparatively long and 
rigorous, continuing till the last of April or the first of May. 
Then "joyous spring looks out and smiles," the earth is di- 
vested of her wintery garments, and vegetation progresses 
with a rapidity unknown in more forward regions. The 
great elevation of the county, which occasions the severity 
of climate in the winter season, ensures a salubrious atmos- 
phere in the summer months, and renders it one of the 
most healthy climates in the state. 

Montrose, the seat of justice, has an elevated and cen- 
tral position, affording an extensive and delightful prospect. 
The town contains about 150 dwellings, three neat churches, 
a court house, an academy, and a bank. Three newspa- 
pers are printed here. There is also a public library and 
a county Lyceum. There are several other thriving villages 
in the county, as New Milford, Dundaff, Great Bend, Had- 
ford, and Springville. At Great Bend is a female board- 
ing school, at ManningtonJs a boarding school for boys; 
and within the county are twelve or fifteen churches, be- 
longing to Episcopalians, Presbyterians, Baptists, Metho- 
dists, and Universalists, and two Catholic chapels. 

Susquehanna was set olf from Luzerne, to which it ori- 
ginally belonged, in 1812, and was, at the same lime or- 
ganized for judicial purposes. It was settled mosdy, by 
emigrants from New England, who brought with them 
their characteristic enterprise, industry, intelligence,. and the 
elevated tone of moral feeling of their fathers. 

Li discribing this county we ought not, perhaps, wholly 
to neglect two or three of its remarkable and picturesque 
water falls. On a branch of Lake creek, near the Salt 
spring, is a succession of these cascades of about 50 feet 
each, where the creek breaks over a high ridge and falls 
into the valley of the larger branch. At the foot of the 
lower fall, and continuing for some distance downward, 
along the stream, the banks are at least 200 feet high, per- 
fectly precipitous, and fringed at the top, and on each side, 
with tall hemlocks, forming a singularly, wild, and romantic 
glen. Into this glen the light streams, chastened and cold, 
struggling as it were, to dispel the deep gloom below. 

In Harmony township there is another cascade still more 
remarkable. A very considerable stream falls about 30 
feet over a ledge of rocks, the strata of which are disposed 
in regular gradations, not unlike the steps of an elevated 



16S GiUOGRAfHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

portico, each step or stratum becoming thinner or lower to- 
wards the top* Almost opposite to this, into the same 
basin, another stream precipitates itself from an elevation of 
more than 100 feet, and is converted into a glittering spray 
long before it reaches the bottom. 

In what part of the state is Susquehanna county? How bounded? 
In what part of the county is Montrose? How is DundafF situated? 
Friendsville? Great Bend? Harmony? Descfibe the North Branch. 
What are some of the streams of this county which flow into the 
North Branch? 

To what geological formation does this county belong? 

What kind of coal is found here? 

What is the surface? 

What names are given to some of the elevations in this county? 

Why is Elk Mountain so named? 

Describe Elk Mountain. 

What are some of the objects which may be seen from the North 
Peak? ^ 

How is the county watered? 

What river runs across the northeast part of the county' 

In what directions do the rivers, which have their sources in the 
undulations included in the great bend, flow ? 

What Indians inhabited this county for a number of years? 

From what spring did the Indians obtain their supply of salt? 

By what means were attempts made to obtain an additional supply 
of salt? Result? 

What natural objects are found in almost every township? 

Mention five items relating to Dr. Rose. Four relating to Henry 
Drinker. 

What are some of the productions of this county? 

Mention four items relating to the climate. Nine relating to 
Montrose. 

What other thriving villages? What schools are mentioned? 

Number of churches? 

To what county did Susquehanna originally belong? 

Mention five items relating to the first settlers. Seven, relating to 
the falls on Lake creek. Three, relating to the cascade in Harmony 
township. Three, relating to a stream opposite to the cascade in 
Harmony township. 



MONROE COUNTY. 



Monroe is a county in the northeast part of the state, for 
which a law was passed during tlie session of the legisla- 
ture of 1836. It is composed, in part, of the south town- 
ships of Pike county, and the northeast of Northampton, 



BRADFORD COUNTY. 159 

The north part is mountainous, and the inhabitants are 
chiefly devoted to the lumber business. The remainder is 
hills; much of it is rough, but some of it contains good land. 
It is watered by Bushkill and Broadhead creeks, and other 
sixeamsi The Lehigh river flows on its west line. 

In what part of the state is Monroe county ? How bounded ? 

Of what townships is it composed ? 

Face of the county ? 

To what business are the inhabitants chiefly devoted ? 

By what streams is it watered ? 

BRADFORD COUNTY. 

This county, though far to the east, belongs to the great 
secondary formation, and contains bituminous coal, salt 
springs, and iron ore, in great abundance. It has a rocky, 
hilly surface, and the soil though diversified, is mostly of 
an inferior quality. On the Susquehanna, and other large 
streams, extensive tracts of excellent alluvial are found; but 
between the water courses, the land is mostly broken and 
unproductive. Bradford contains no regular chain of moun- 
tains, but comparatively low, scattered, and barren hills. 

The county is well watered by the Susquehanna and its 
numerous branches. 

Towanda is the seat of justice. But few villages are 
found in the county. The population consists, chiefly, of 
emigrants from New England and their descendants. 

Athens, one of the oldest and prettiest villages in this part 
of the state, is about 13 miles north of Towanda. The 
Susquehanna river enters the township of Athens, from the 
northeast, and the Tioga from the northwest. Near the 
town of Athens the rivers approach each other within a mile. 
Below that town they diverge, widening the distance be- 
tween them to about a mile and a half, but unite about two 
miles above the south line of the township. Over the Tioga 
is a bridge 450 feet long, and 28 wide, resting on four stone 
piers. 

In 1831, a Geological Society was formed here, whose 
object is to procure specimens of minerals, and have them 
analyzed. One newspaper is published in the county, 
called the Bradford Settler. 



160 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

The exports consist of grain, flour, fruits, whiskey, salt- 
ed provisions, live stock, lumber, etc. These articles are 
conveyed to market by the Susquehanna. ■ 

In what part of the state is Bradford county ? How bounded ? 
How is Athens situated ? Towanda ? etc. 

In what geological formation is this county ? 

What minerals abound here ? Face of the country ? Soil ? Seat 
of justice ? 

Of what people do the inhabitants consist ? 

What society was formed here in 1831 ? 

Number of newspapers ? 



MISCELLANEOUS QUESTIONS.-— NO. 2. 

What peculiar sect inhabited the village of Ephrata ? 

What is the comparative size of Philadelphia ? 

Where is the Paoli monument ? 

What army suffered greatly at Valley Forge ? 

At what place are 20 or 30,000 dozen of wool hats made annually? 

What great manufacturing village is seven miles from Philadelphia? 

From what township are 60,000 corn brooms annually sent to mar- 
ket ? 

What river passes by the village of Manayunk ? 
, What counties are mostly settled by emigrants from New England? 

When was Harrisburg founded ? 

Where is Valley Forge J? 

How is the Eastern Penitentiary situated ? 

In what county is West Chester the seat^f justice .' 

In what direction is Northampton county from Lehigh ? 

What counties are intersected by the north branch of the Susque- 
hanna ? 

In what county do the streams flow as from the centre, to the cir- 
cumference of a circle ? 

By whom was Harrisburg founded ? 

In what county is Potts ville situated ? 

Where is the Girard College located ? 

In what county is the Lehigh Water Gap ? 

In what county is Doylestown ? 

What people are distinguished for simplicity of manners, and love 
of music ? 

On what river is Bristol ? 

What practice have the Lehigh Coal and Navigation Company 
been enabled to enforce at Mauch Chunk village ? 

In what county is Montrose ? 

In what county is Mauch Chunk Mountain ? 

What is the perpendicular height of the cliffs at the Delaware Wa- 
ter Gap ? 



MISCELLANEOUS QUESTIONS. 161 

In what county is found a valuable mine of black lead? 
By whom was coal discovered in Mauch Chunk Mountain ? 
What village is 11 miles above the Lehigh Water Gap? 
What number of towns in Eastern Pennsylvania are supplied with 
water by artificial means ? 

In what county occurred the Wyoming Massacre ? 
What town is the centre of internal inprovements for the state ? 
What charitable institution merits the highest praise ? 
Aggregate number of volumes in the public libraries of Philadel- 
phia ? 

In what county have the people manifested a deep interest in the 
education of their children ? 

When was the Sunday School Union established ? 
What town is particularly celebrated for the rapidity of its growth ? 
In what county is Danville the seat of justice? 
Near what place may be seen the singular curiosity of a coal mine 
on fire ? 

In what corner of the state is Wayne county ? 
In what county is AUeiitown the seat of justice ? 
What town is located at the confluence of the Lehigh and Delaware 
rivers ? 

In what respects is Northampton one of the most interesting coun- 
ties in the state ? 

What beautiful valley is 20 miles long ? 

What was the first considerable German settlement in the United 
States ? 

In what part of the state is Susquehanna county? 

What opinion was formed of the coal, brought from Mauch Chunk 
to Philadelphia, in 1806 ? 

In what part of the state is anthracite coal found ? 

Into what three great sections is Pennsylvania divided ? 

Ill what direction is Northum])erland county from Dauphin ? 

In what part of the state is Pike county ? 

In what county is Milford the seat of justice ? 

At the confluence of what two rivers is Easton ? 

What county has a great number of beautiful lakes ? 

What minerals abound in Western Pennsylvania ? 

Number of churches in Philadelphia? 

Number of volumes in the Philadelphia Library ? 

What number of public squares in Philadelphia ? 

In what county is Chester the seat of justice ? 

Which county was the favourite residence of the Swedes ? 

For what was Upland distinguished ? 

What number of prisons in Philadelphia county ? 

In what direction is Philadelphia county from Montgomery ? 

What man, distinguished for wealth, commenced his life without 
money, in the occupation of a sailor ? 

Length of the Philadelphia, Germantown, and Norristown Railroad ? 

To what geological formation does Central Pennsylvania mostly be- 
long ? 

What river unites with the Delaware six miles below Philadelphia? 

In what county do six bridges cross the Schuylkill river ? 
15 



162 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA^ 

What institutions are the glory of Philadelphia ? 

Where is the University of Pennsylvania located ? 

What county is called the garden of Pennsylvania ? 

What sect of Christians lived chiefly on roots and vegetables 7 

Cost of Philadelphia Water Works ? 

In what county is Reading ? 

In what direction is Lancaster county from Chester ? 

Length of the bridge which crosses the Susquehanna at Columbia? 

In which town is the highest steeple in the state ? 

What are some of the curiosities in the Philadelphia Museum ? 
What is said in commendation of the Franklin Institute ? 

Why was the colony, settled at Ephrata, so called ? 
When was the Franklin Institute incorporated ? 
In what valley is Berks county ? 

What building contains the room, in which Independence was de- 
clared ? 

When was the Philadelphia Institute incorporated ? 
What canal intersects the county of Lebanon ? 
Which is the handsomest public edifice in Philadelphia ? 
What is the capital of Pennsylvania ? 

What counties, in Eastern Pennsylvania, border on the Susquehanna 
river ? 

What situation, in relation to each other, can the miners occupy in 
Bear Gap ? 

Through what counties does the Columbia and Philadelphia Rail* 
road pass ? 

What is the Geological formation of Philadelphia county ? 
What bridge cost $300,000 ? 

What articles were found, while excavating the State Canal near 
Bainbridge ? 

Native place of Stephen Girard ? 

What town is celebrated for the manufacture of wool hats ? 
Population of Philadelphia? 

To what inconvenience are the inhabitants subjected in limestone 
countries ? 

In what valley is Wilkesbarre ? 

What counties border on the Delaware river ? 



CENTRAL PENNSYLVANIA. 163 

LETTER XVII. 

CENTRAL PENNSYLVANIA. 

w3 Description of the Counties, with the Principal Towns, 
etc. 

In this great section of the state you will find the fol- 
lowing 



Counties. 


When formed. 


Population in 1830. 


York, 


1749, 


42,859 


Adams, 


1800, 


21,378 


Cumberland, 


1750, 


29,226 


Franklin, 


1784, 


35,037 


Bedford, 


1771, 


24,502 


Somerset, 


1795, 


17,762 


Cambria, 


1804, 


7,146 


Huntingdon, 


1787, 


27,145 


Perry, 


1820, 


2.980 


Juniata, 


1831, 


7,672 


Mifflin, 


1789, 


21,690 


Union, 


1813, 


20,795 


Centre, 


1800, 


18,879 


Clearfield, 


1804, 


4,803 


Lycoming, 


1795, 


17,636 


Tioga, 


1804, 


8,978 


Potter, 


1804, 


1,265 


M'Kean, 


1804, 


1,439 



164 



GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA* 



YORK COUNTY. 




This county contains a portion of the three great geologi* 
cal formations. The primitive is in the eastern part, and 
extends over nearly one half the county ; the secondary 
occupies the central portions, and contains a strip of lime- 
stone, in which excellent marble is found ; the remainder 
belongs to the transition. 

The Conewago Hills cross the northeast corner of the 
county, and the South Mountain extends along the bounda- 
ry on the northwest. Excellent slate suitable for roofing, 
is obtained in Peach Bottom township, and in the adjoining 
part of Lancaster, on the opposite side of the river. In 
other places specimens of marl, copper, and gold have been 
discovered, and iron ore is found, in a great number of pla- 
ces, throughout the county. Four furnaces and six forges 
are in operation. 

York county is well watered. The Susquehanna, wind^ 
ing along the eastern coast, receives the Great Codorus, 
Conewago, Yellow Breeches, Muddy creek, etc. On the 
latter stream a number of mills and a forge of the largest kind 
have been erected, The falls on the creek is an interesting 
object. The stream becomes so contracted, that a person 
can easily step across, and the whole volume of water 
tumbles over a rock, nearly perpendicular, into a rocky ba- 
sin below. The height, however, is very inconsiderable, 
being only about 10 or 12 feet. Fish of various kinds col- 



YORK COUNTY. 165 

Isct here, in their passage up the stream. The Codorus is 
a valuable stream, running through the town of York, and 
has been rendered navigable by the enterprising and indus- 
trious inhabitants of that place. A railroad, commencing 
at Columbia Bridge, passing through York, and extending 
to Baltimore, is under contract, and will soon be finished; 
and also one to Gettysburg. 

This county is divided into 25 townships, contains a 
number of flourishing towns and villages, and probably, 
has a greater number of excellent turnpikes than any other 
county in the state, 

York, the seat of justice, is a wealthy flourishing town, 
on the Codorus creek, 83 miles west of Philadelphia. It 
is a neat village, and well built, situated on an elevated plain, 
surrounded by hills which are highly cultivated, and cov- 
ered with the most luxuriant verdure. It contains a court 
house, an academy, a prison, a bank, eleven places of pub- 
lic worship, and, including the villages of Buttstown and 
Freystown, about 5000 inhabitants. An almshouse and a 
Theological Seminary * belonging to the German Reformed 
Church, are situated near the town. During the Revolu- 
tionary War, when Congress were driven from Philadel- 
phia, they retired to York, and occupied the court house, 
now standing in the town. Though it sufficed for this im- 
portant occasion, it is now too small for the business of the 
county. Here are two churches for the blacks, and a 
Catholic chapel. All the churches in this place, with one 
exception, are substantial brick buildings, in which there is, 
usually, service on the Sabbath in the morning and evening, 
but we are sorry to say that the afternoon of this sacred 
day is mosfly spent in walking about and visiting. Sunday 
Schools are established in the town, and there is a Bible 
Society, Temperance Society, and a Female Charitable 
Association, called the Dorcas Society, a Female Education 
-Society, and a Missionary Society, composed of females be- 
longing to the Reformed Church, the Lutheran, and the 
Presbyterian, auxiliary to the American Board of Foreign 
Missions. Five weekly newspapers are published here, 
three in the English language, and two in the German ; a 
county Lyceum, was established, in 1835, and has about 50 
members and a cabinet of minerals. Weekly meetings are 
*This Seminary is shortly to be removed to Mercersburg, where a 
High School is established. 

15 * 



166 6M0atlA^itlf Ot PENNSYLVANIA. 

held by the Lyceum, in which are lectures, or discussion of 
(Questions at every meeting* The town is supplied with 
water from a neighboring spring, and is almost proverbial 
for its healthfulness. 

During the session of Congress in this town, in 1777, 
Philip Livingston, a member of that body, died here, and 
was buried in the cemetery of the German Reformed 
church. A monument has been erected to his memory, 
consisting of a pyramid of white marble, surmounted by 
an urn. 

The grape has been successfully cultivated in this region, 
but is now almost given up. Several persons have, recent- 
ly, begun to plant mulberry trees for the manufacture of silk. 

There are 5 incorporated towns in the county ; among 
the number is Hanover, which stands on a fertile valley 
southeast of York. It has about 1200 inhabitants, pub- 
lishes two weekly newspapers, and is noted for industry and 
morality. 

This county was formerly noted, for having serious and 
bloody contentions about their boundaries. It is about a 
century since the first settlements were commenced by emi- 
grants from Germany and the north of Ireland. Previous 
to the year 1728, unauthorized settlers seated themselves 
on land in this county, but at the close of the year, they 
were removed, at the request of the Indians. In the year 
1731, Cressap and others, under a pretence of a title from 
Maryland, located themselves on the same lands, from 
which the former intruders had been driven off. The con- 
sequences of these unlawful proceedings, were long, angry, 
and bloody contentions, until, finally, by the interference oif 
the king and council, Cressap was captured, and the con- 
tention terminated. 

This county contains about 30 churches, belonging to 
Lutherans, German Reformed, Presbyterians, Methodists, 
Episcopalians, Quakers, etc. A county Bible Society is 
established, and Sunday Schools are common throughout 
the county. 

" The business of the county is chiefly in agriculture, or 
in manufactures, immediately connected with it. The skill 
of the farmer has been much improved by the instructions 
of Mr. Barnitz, of York. He has introduced, and rendered 
common the finest breeds of neat cattle, sheep, and swine, 
and has originated several new objects of culture. Among 



YORK COUNTY. 167 

the latter are the grape and the sunflower. The cultiva- 
tion of the sunflower is novel is this region. It is culti- 
vated like Indian corn. Any land, that produces corn, will 
produce from 50 to 60 bushels the acre of sunflower seed, 
and it is worth 75 cents per bushel. This seed yields a 
large quantity of excellent oil. The oil is used by clothiers, 
is highly esteemed in the manufacture of printer's ink, and 
for burning in lamps, where purity and brilliancy are re- 
quired. It is a good salad oil, and taken medicinally, it is 
as useful as the castor oil, and more pleasant. The seed is 
a palatable nutritious food for cattle, the strong fibrous parts 
may be made into pack thread, the white shining substance 
into paper, and the large roots, naked stems, and other waste 
parts, may be used for fuel." 

The annual exports from this county consist of grain 
of various kinds, whiskey, pork, clover-seed, iron, etc., 
and amount to nearly $2,000,000. 

In what part of the state is York county ? How bounded ? What 
river washes the eastern boundary ? Describe the Codorus creek. 
Canewago. In what part of the county is York ? In what direc- 
tion is York Haven from York ? Hanover ? Strasburg ? etc. 

What geological formations does this county contain ? 

What minerals are found here ? Number of furnaces and forges 
in operation ? 

How is the county watered ? Mention four items relating to Mud- 
dy creek ? 

What useful article is found in Peach Bottom township ? 

Comparative number of turnpikes in this county ? 

Which town is the seat of justice ? 

How is York situated ? 

Public buildings in York ? 

Number of churches ? 

What seminary is situated near York,? 

On what occasion was the court house in York occupied by Con- 
gress ? 

What benevolent Societies are there in York ? 

What account can you give of the county Lyceum ? 

To whose memory has a monument been erected in the cemetery 
of the German Reformed church ? 

What town in the county is noted for industry and morality ? 

Population of York ? 

What contentions have been carried on in this county ? 

What benevolent societies in this county ? 

In what does the business of this county consist ? 

By whose instructions has the skill of the farmers been much im- 
proved ? 

What new subjects of culture has Mr. Barnitz originated ? 



168 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

What useful article does the sunflower yield ? 

To what useful purposes has the oil of the sunflower been appro- 
priated ? 

What uses may be made of different parts of this plant? 
What are the exports of this county ? 

ADAMS COUNTY. 

This is a pleasant county ; but you must not be disap- 
pointed, should you find, that the natural features are not 
so particularly interesting here, as in some other parts of 
the state. The surface is, however, greatly diversified. 
In some parts the mountains begin to show their lofty emi- 
nences, and occasionally, there is a delightful intermingling 
of the sublime and beautifiil. On the north and west bor- 
ders of the county, is to be seen the first great chain of hills 
west of the Atlantic, frequently denominated the South 
Mountain. The most valuable minerals, found in this 
mountain, are iron and copper. This county has two 
furnaces. 

In Adams county the streams are not navigable, but af- 
ford excellent mill seats. Some of the more important 
ones are Conewago, Marsh creek. Middle creek, etc. There 
are several sulphur springs, the most important of which 
are York Sulphur Springs in the northern part of the coun- 
ty. Speaking of these springs, a visiter says, " they un- 
doubtedly possess sanative qualities, and are situated on a 
spot so elevated, that every breeze must have healing in its 
wings." The buildings are large and commodious, the 
bounties of Providence are furnished in rich profusion, and 
the place is much frequented, especially by the fashionable 
people of Baltimore. 

The county has 88 miles of turnpike road, and 15 or 20 
public bridges. 

There is a diversity of soil, from the most unproductive 
slate, to the richest limestone. But the improvements in 
agriculture are not great, the people being too tenacious of 
ancient customs. The principal trade of the county con- 
sists in the exchange of agricultural articles for foreign goods. 

The inhabitants are composed chiefly of Germans, and 
emigrants from New Jersey. 

The county contains 30 churches, many of which belong 



AOAT\!S COUNTY. 160 

to the Lutheran German Reformed. In 1826, this denomi- 
nation established a Theological Seminary near Gettysburg. 
It is under the superintendence of Dr. Shmucker, has two 
Professors, and about 20 students, and a library containing 
7,000 volumes. The edifice is a fine four story brick building, 
located on a commanding eminence about half a mile from 
the village. Near the Seminary are two neat, and commo- 
dious dwellings for the Professors. At the same place is 
Pennsylvania College, established in 1832, under the direc- 
tion of the Rev. Mr. Krauth as President, containing about 
one hundred students. A very handsome brick edifice, 
which is to be occupied by this institution, has recently 
been erected. It consists of a centre building, with a por- 
tico and columns, has two wings, is 150 feet in length, and 
four stories high. When completely finished, it will be 
one of the most tasteful buildings in the state. 

Adams county contains about 15 or 20 villages, the most 
important of which is Gettysburg, the seat of justice. It has 
an elevated location, encircled by a delightful country, in a 
state of high cultivation. It is said that there are few places 
in the state, in which there is more intelligence than in Gettys 
burg, or in which the moral or social feelings are more sedu- 
lously cultivated. The town is supplied with water by artifi- 
cial means, contains about 2,000 inhabitants, a court house, 
county oflfices, a prison, and six churches. Three weekly 
newspapers are published here, and one, in the German lan- 
guage at Abbottstown. The town is noted for the manu- 
facture of carriages of all descriptions. 

In what part of the state is Adams county ? How bounded? De- 
scribe the Conewago creek. In what part of the county is Gettysburg ? 
In what direction are York Springs from Gettysburg ? Petersburg? 
Fairfield ? etc. 

What is the surface of this county ? 

What chain of hills is found here ? 

What springs'? Which are the most important?- 

Whatdoes a visiter say of the York Sulphur Springs'? 

From what place do the fashionable people frequent these springsl 

Whatis the soin 

By what people is the county inhabited^ Number of churches'? 

Religious denomination most prevalenf? 

What Theological Seminary is located near Gettysburg? Number 
of Professors and students'? 

What College at Gettysburg'? How many students'? 

Who is President of the College at Gettysburg'? 

Which is the county town? How situated'? 



170 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 



CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 



This county lies in the great Kittatinny Valley, and par- 
takes of the singular formations, which distinguish this valley 
in its whole extent. The eastern part, composed of lime- 
stone, is comparatively level, possesses a superior soil, but 
is subjected to the inconvenience of an unequal distribution 
of water. The western part of the county, occupied by 
the slate formation, has an inferior soil. Iron ore is found 
in different parts, but, principally, in the limestone section. 
The most considerable streams, in the county, are the 
Yellow Breeches in the northeast, and the Conedogwinit 
in the southwest. There are several remarkable springs 
in the county. Letart Spring creek turns two mills just at 
its source, and Big Sprtng has its banks studded with mills. 
Some of these are. Sulphur Spring near the foot of the Blue 
Mountains, Boiling Spring near the base of the South Moun-^ 
tain, and Carlisle Springs four miles from Carlisle. 

The county is crossed by two excellent turnpikes, and 
inhabited, chiefly, by the descendants of Germans and 
Irish. 

The public buildings are a court house, public offices, a 
prison, Dickinson College, the United States' barracks, and 
a poorhouse. The barracks are very handsome, were built 
during the Revolutionary War, and here, the ammunition, 
used by Washington in taking Yorktown, was made. 

The exports consist principally of wheat, rye, oats, whis- 
key, peach and apple brandy, live stock, salted provisions, 
iron, etc. Large quantities of iron, of the best quality, are 
manufactured in this valley, and in the county ten furnaces 
are now being built. Formerly there were six distilleries 
in Carlisle, now there are only three; large ones, however, 
are in operation within a mile of the borough. 

The manufactures are chiefly of a domestic nature, there 
are, however, various kinds of mills, and an extensive wool- 
len manufactory at South Middleton, in which are made 
principally, carpets and casinetts. The carpets are very 
handsome, and are sent to Pittsburg and various other places. 
In the county there are Bible and Missionary Societies, 
Tract Societies, Sunday School Associations, and about 25 
churches. Two newspapers are printed. 

Before the Revolution, the people of this county had 



CtJMBERLAND COUNTY. 171 

great trouble with the Indians, suffering by the tomahawk, 
the scalping knife, and in various other ways* I was in- 
formed in Carlisle, that persons who had been taken captive 
and scalped, had been seen with their heads bound up, return- 
ing through that town to their friends.* 

* You are aware, ray dear pupils, that many of the early settlers 
of Pennsylvania came from Germany. Among the numerous emi- 
grants, from that country, was a poor man with a large family. At 
that time " there were no schools here during the week, or on the 
Sabbath, and no churches. So the poor man used to keep his family 
at home on the Sabbath, and teach them from God's word — for he 
was a very good man. In the 1754, a dreadful war broke out in 
Canada, between the French and English. The Indians joined the 
French, and used to go to Pennsylvania, burn houses, murder the 
people, and carry off every thing they wanted. They found the dwell- 
ing of this poor German family. The man, and his eldest boy, and 
two little girls, named Barbary and Regina, were at home, while the 
wife, and one of the boys were gone to carry some grain to the mil], 
a few miles off. The Indians at once killed the man, and his son, and 
took the two little girls, one aged ten, and the other nine, and carried 
them away, along with a great many- other weeping children whom 
they had taken after murdering their parents. It was never known 
what became of Barbary, the oldest girl; but Regina, with another 
little girl of two years old, whom Regina had never seen before, were 
given to an old Indian woman, who was very cruel. Her only son 
lived with her, and supported her; but he was sometimes gone for 
several weeks, and then the old woman used to send the little girls to 
gather roots and herbs in the woods, for the old woman to eat; and 
when they did not get enough, she used to beat them cruelly. Regina 
never forgot her good father and mother, and the little girl always 
kept close to her. She taught the little girl to kneel down under the 
trees and pray to the Lord Jesus, and to say over with her all the hymns 
which her parents had taught her. In this state of slavery these chil- 
dren lived for many long years, till Regina was about nineteen, and 
her little friend was about eleven years old. Their hearts all this time 
seemed to wish for that which is good. They used to repeat, not only . 
the texts of Scripture which Regina could remember, but there was 
one favourite hymn which they often repeated over. 

"In the year 1764, the kindness of God brought the English Colonel 
Bouquet to the place where they were. He conquered the Indians, 
and made them ask for. peace. He granted it on condition that all 
the white prisoners and captives should be given to him. More than 
four hundred were brought to the Colonel; and among them, these 
two girls. They were all poor, wretched locking objects. The Colo- 
nel carried them to Carlisle, and had it printed in all the newspapers, 
that all parents who had lost children by the Indians, might come and 
see if they were among the four hundred poor captives." Parents and 
husbands went hundreds of miles in hopes of meeting lost wives or 
children. The collection amounted to several thousand, and the sight 



172 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

Carlisle is the county town, situated on the ^reat turn- 
pike road from Philadelphia to Pittsburg, 118 miles from 
the former. " Being in the centre of a rich and well wa- 
tered limestone valley, and standing on a rising ground, it 
presents a rich and variegated landscape of mountains, 
woods, and cultivated fields." The streets are mostly pav- 
ed, the town is regularly laid out, and contains about 650 
houses, and 4,000 inhabitants. In the centre of the town, 
are two stone churches, a market house, a court house, and 
fire-proof offices. Besides, there are seven other churches, 
belonging to different denominations. 

The inhabitants of Carlisle are a church-going people, 
and in a moral point of view, the place seems highly fa- 
voured. 

Dickinson College is a very prominent and handsome edi- 

of beholding relatives, who had been cruelly sundered, again meet and 
rush into each others arras, filled the whole company with rejoicing. 
There was also mourning. Others who were disappointed in their ex- 
pectations of finding relatives, made much lamentation. Among 
them was " poor Regina's sorrowing mother. When she got to Car- 
lisle she did not, and could not know Regina. She had grown up, 
and looked, and dressed, and spoke like the Indians. The mother 
went up and down among the captives weeping, but could not find 
her child. She stood gazing and weeping when Colonel Bouquet 
came up and said, ' do you recollect nothing by which your child 
might be discovered?' She said she recollected nothing but a hymn, 
which she used often to sing to her children, and which is as follows: 

* Alone, yet not alone am I, 
Though in this solitude so drear; 
I feel my Saviour always nigh, 
He comes the very hour to cheer; 
I am with him and he with me, 
E'en here alone I cannot be!' 

" The Colonel desired her to sing the hymn as she used to do. 
Scarcely had the mother sung two lines of it, when poor Regina rush- 
ed fiom the crowd, began to sing it also, and threw herself into her 
mother's arms. They both wept for joy, and the Colonel gave the 
daughter up to her mother. But the other little girl had no parents. 
They had probably been murdered. She clung to Regina, and would 
not let her go, so she was taken home with Regina, though her moth- 
er was very poor. Regina began to ask after ' the book in which God 
speaks to us.' But her mother had no Bible — for the Indians burned 
her Bible when they burned her house, and killed her family. Her 
mother resolved to go to Philadelphia and buy a Bible, but her good 
minister gave her one, and it was found that Regina could read at 
once." Todd's Sabbath School Teacher. 



CUMBERLAND COUNTY. 178 

fice, built of limestone, on the site of a beautiful brick build- 
ing which was consumed by fire, in 1803. The college 
now standing, is one hundred and fifty feet in length, four 
stories high, surmounted by a handsome cupola. From this 
cupola is a fine view of the neighbouring country, and the 
mountains which spread around, arrayed in grandeur and 
beauty. Recently another building has been erected four 
stories high, and about 100 feet in length. This college 
was so named in honour of John Dickinson, a man emi- 
nently useful to his country. It was incorporated in 1783, 
and after sustaining a precarious existence for a number of 
years, the trustees were compelled, in 1816, to suspend its 
operations for want of funds. In 1821, it was resuscitated 
and was in a prosperous state for a number of years. Re- 
cently, the number of students having declined, the trustees 
have transferred the college to the Methodist Conference. 
That body have endowed it, and it has gone into operation 
under the most auspicious circumstances. The Rev. Mr. 
Durbin is President; there are besides, two Professors, and 
two teachers, and the number of students, including those 
engaged in preparatory studies, is 160. 

About four miles north of Carlisle, on a branch of the 
Conedogwinit are the Sulphur Springs, situated in a very 
healthy, pleasant and retired spot. Here is a large estab- 
lishment for the accommodation of strangers, and formerly, 
it was a place of great resort. The water is strongly sul- 
phuric in taste, bubbles of gas are continually escaping, and 
if a piece of silver be suffered to remain in the water for a 
few minutes, it becomes tarnished. 

Another natural curiosity, in the vicinity of Carlisle, is 
the limestone cave. With two lights, and in company with 
three or four individuals, we commenced our walk to this 
cave late in the afternoon, and reached the banks of the 
beautiful Conedogwinit just as the declining sun had sunk 
beneath the horizon. Nature was lovely around, the pre- 
vailing stillness, the retiring landscape, the meandering 
stream, all seemed to invite to meditation and studious 
thought. Just on the bank of the river, we entered this 
dreary abode. But after going a short distance, and finding 
it damp, cold, and every way unpleasant, we were con- 
strained to turn about, and now, in the language of another 
we must describe it. " The entrance is perpendicular, by 
a semicircular archway, seven feet high, in a limestone rock 
16 



174 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

of twenty feet perpendicular elevation. So true and finish- 
ed is the curve of this portal, that the spectator is induced 
to believe it perfected by art. The first, or antechamber 
has a length of ninety yards, and is high enough to admit 
the visiter to stand erect. Three passages branch off from 
it. That on the right is broad and low, arid from the mois- 
ture of the stones, frequently difficult of access. It leads 
to a chamber as large as the first. The centre passage from 
the antechamber is very narrow, and in a direction similar 
to a winding staircase. After a progress of^ ten yards, it is 
impassable, and terminates in a perpendicular excavation. 
The left hand passage, at the distance of three or four feet 
from the entrance, turns suddenly to the right, and extends 
nearly thirty yards, with sufficient breadth and height to 
admit a small boy to creep along it; but it becomes, thence- 
forth, too strait for further progress. About seven feet from 
the entrance of this gallery, are several small pools of water 
formed by the drippings of the roof, which have been mis- 
taken for springs." 

It is supposed by some, that the Indians formerly used this 
cave as a refuge from danger, a deposit for their spoils, and 
a place of interment for the dead. Human bones have been 
found in it, but none of those articles, usually buried with 
the Indians. 

In what direction is Cumberland county from Philadelphia? How 
bounded? Describe the Conedogwinit. The Yellow Breeches. In 
what part of the county is Carlisle? etc. In what direction is Shippens- 
burg from Carlisle? 

In what valley is this county? 

Describe the limestone formation and the slate. 

What are the two principal streams? 

What fact is stated respecting Letart Spring creek? 

What springs can you mention? 

By what people is the county inhabited? 

Mention the public buildings of the county. 

What article is manufactured in great abundance? 

What are the principal articles made at the large woollen manufac- 
tory, in South Middleton? 

What benevolent Societies in the county? 

Number of churches? Number of newspapers printed? 

With whom did the people of this county formerly have much 
trouble? 

Tell the story of the poor German family contained in the note. 

Which town is the seat of justice? How situated? 

How far is Carlisle from Philadelphia? 

Number of inhabitants in Carlisle? Public buildings? 

In what point of view does Carlisle seem favoured? 



i 



FRANKLIN COUNTY. 175 

What is the situation of Dickinson College? 

Describe the college edifices. 

What objects may be seen from the cupola? 

Why is this college called Dickinson? 

To what body of Christians has this College been transferred? 

Under what circumstances has it gone into operation? 

Who is the President? Number of Professors and students? 

Mention four items relating to the Sulphur Springs. The Lime- 
stone Cave. 

What use is supposed to have been made of this Cave by the In- 
dians? 



FRANKLIN COUNTY. 

This county, though lying mostly in the Great Valley, is, 
in some parts, very mountainous. The principal ranges are 
the South Mountain, and the western Tuscarora or Cove 
Mountain. The South Mountain, though covered with an 
almost impenetrable forest, and possessing a soil favourable 
to the growth of forest trees, is too sandy and sterile for 
grass or grain. The western ridges possess a greater di- 
versity of soil and surface, are many of them rugged, and 
have a forbidding aspect. Between the mountains, valleys 
spread along, varying in extent and soil. The path valley 
is productive, well cultivated, and highly picturesque and 
interesting. The projecting mountains, covered with a 
luxuriant vegetation, seem almost suspended over the smil- 
ing fields below. 

The different soils of limestone and slate are separated 
by the Conecocheague creek. The greater part is lime- 
stone, well watered, highly cultivated, and produces in rich 
abundance. The slate, though not so fertile and productive 
as the limestone, affords to the industrious husbandman the 
means of comfort and independence. 

Iron ore is found very abundantly in Franklin county, 
and of a quality not inferior to the Juniata iron. Extensive 
beds have been discovered, and near the South Mountain 
a vein extends from one end of the county to the other. 
The abundance of fuel and water power, in the vicinity of 
the ore, furnish great facilities for the manufacture of iron. 
White marble has been discovered in various places, and, 
from the extent of the limestone surface, it is believed that 
much greater quantities of this beautiful mineral may be 



176 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

found. The limestone contains numerous marine fossils, 
and at once supplies the farmer with materials for building, 
fencing, and unfailing sources of manure. 

The principal streams are the Conecocheague, and Cone- 
dogwinit. They intersect the county in every direction, 
water and fertilize the land, and give motion to eighty flour 
mills, one hundred saw mills, twenty fulling mills, five fur- 
naces, seven woollen manufactories, etc. The water power 
in the county, is not only sufficient to drive all these ma- 
chines, but nearly double that number. 

The chief agricultural products are the different sorts of 
grain. The soil is peculiarly adapted to the growth of 
barley, flax, and hemp, yet neither of these articles are ex- 
tensively cultivated. A great deal of wheat is raised, and 
exported in large quantities; from 150,000 to 200,000 bar- 
rels being annually sent to Baltimore. Grasses of a supe- 
rior kind, have been introduced, and flourish well. The 
manufacture of silk is beginning to excite an interest, and 
some of the citizens raise the white mulberry, and feed the 
silk worms with persevering attention. Both soil and cli- 
mate are conducive to the cultivation of this article. 

This county is remarkable for producing a great variety 
of forest trees. So numerous are the different species, that 
a small piece of land, not exceeding an acre, will sometimes 
produce fifteen or twenty different kinds. 

Much attention has been paid to the construction of roads 
and bridges. There are 23 large stone bridges, and more 
than four hundred miles of public roads, of which sixty- 
three are stone turnpikes. 

In the county, are Bible Societies, Tract Societies, Tem- 
perance Societies, Sunday School Associations, and forty 
churches, regularly supplied with ministers. Three news- 
papers are published in the English language, and one in 
German. 

A great portion of the houses, in this county, are of 
stone or brick, and in limestone districts, not only the 
dwellings, but the barns and stables are of the same mate- 
rials. 

Franklin was settled, chiefly, by Irish and Germans, and 
is now occupied by their descendants. It is well supplied 
with primary schools, and has an Almshouse, and House 
of Employment, where about seventy paupers are support- 
ed at an annual expense, for each, of thirty-seven dollars. 



FRANKLIN COUNTY. 177 

Here are numerous towns and villages in a thriving state. 
Among the most important are Greencastle, Mercersburg, 
and Waynesburg. They have neat and handsome dwell- 
ings, fine edifices for public worship, and are situated in 
the midst of a rich and delightful country, in a high state 
of cultivation. 

Chambersburg, the county town, situated at the junction 
of the Falling Spring and Conecocheague creek, is one of 
the most pleasant, and flourishing inland towns in Pennsyl- 
vania. It is in a healthy country, highly cultivated, and 
surrounded by fine mountain scenery. 

The original proprietor of this town was Colonel Benja- 
min Chambers, who selected this place for its location, on 
account of its superior natural advantages of water power 
and soil. He made choice of the spot about a century ago, 
at which time it was a wilderness, the haunt of wild ani- 
mals, and the abode of uncivilized man. He built a house, 
some mills, and to protect himself and his neighbours from 
the depredations of the Indians, surrounded his little settle- 
ment with a fort. 

Chambersburg is now a fine, handsome town, containing 
about 5,000 inhabitants. The houses are mostly of brick 
or stone, and many of them highly ornamented. The pub- 
lic buildings are a brick court house, a prison, eight houses 
for public worship, a large academy, and a bank. The 
stores, manufacturing establishments, houses of entertain- 
ment, etc., are numerous, and the whole has a very inter- 
esting and commanding appearance. The number of week- 
ly newspapers, published here, is three; one in the German 
language, and two in the English. 

Chambersburg has, in many; respects, a most favourable 
location, especially for manufacturing establishments. The 
water power now gives motion to two flour mills, two full- 
ing [mills, a paper mill, an oil mill, and a large manufac- 
tory of edged tools, where the business is carried on to a 
very great extent, and the articles manufactured are of a 
superior quality. In and near the town, there are twenty 
mills of diflTerent kinds, and the water is sufficient to pro- 
pel a hundred pairs of stones. 

The paper mill, for the fabrication of straw paper, a large 

and very ornamental edifice, was erected in 1831. For 

the convenience of drying the paper, it is necessary to have 

a great number of openings in the building. The spaces, 

16* 



178 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

between these openings, are painted green, which gives the 
building a very tasteful appearance, similar to that of nume- 
rous green blinds. 

Chambersburg has the advantage of turnpike roads, lead- 
ing to Harrisburg, York, Baltimore, and Pittsburg. A rail- 
road from Harrisburg to Chambersburg is now construct- 
ing. 

When Mr. Chambers purchased this township, a part 
of the stipulation was, that the spot which had been used 
as a burying ground by the Indians, should not be ploughed 
during his life, nor that of his sons, nor grandsons. At 
the expiration of that period, the place was dug up, and 
many curiosities found, which had been buried with the 
Indians. 

The Presbyterian church in this place, is situated in a re- 
tired, and very romantic spot, being mostly enveloped with 
trees, surrounded by a delightful green. At the west end 
of the green is the Presbyterian burying ground, situated 
between two streams, and adjoining this, is the Indian 
burying ground. Here, the remains of many generations 
have been deposited. 

During the Revolutionary War, the Indians were very 
troublesome to the inhabitants of Chambersburg, and the 
people were compelled to repair to their fort for safety. 
At one time a number ventured out to reap some grain, and 
began to work with all their might, thinking themselves 
safe, till suddenly, the heads of several Indians were seen 
near them. They ran, and all but one succeeded in getting 
to the fort without difficulty. This poor man did not see 
the Indians, till he found one on each side of him. He 
then ran, and the Indians ran with him, for seven miles. 
He dared not kill one of the Indians, lest the other should 
kill him, neither dared one of the Indians attempt the life 
of the white man, lest he should raise his arm against the 
other Indian. Thus they ran on, till they had nearly 
reached' the fort, and the people came out, and rescued 
their exhausted friend from the merciless rage of these 
savages. During the same period, some women from 
Chambersburg, were carried into captivity, kept for a num- 
ber of years, and finally adopted by the Indians as daugh- 
ters. In 1834, an old lady was living in the town, who 
had been ten years in captivity, and was adopted by the 
Indians. 



FRANKLIN COUNTY. 179 

Some twenty years ago, there was a chain of robbers, 
the centre of whose operations was Chambersburg, ex- 
tending from thence to Carolina on the south, and Canada 
on the north. They stole horses, and sent them to Canada 
for sale ; and if they found any opposed to them, they 
would burn their houses and barns, and no one dared accuse 
them, lest their buildings should be laid in ashes. One 
man had his house burnt by a robber, whom he knew, 
and knew that his lurking place was Chambersburg. He 
endeavoured to obtain assistance, that would enable him to 
arrest the villian ; but no one dared to incur his displeasure. 
At length, the injured man came to Chambersburg, seized 
the robber, and had a severe squabble with him. Many, 
seeing the contest, looked on, but dared not interfere. Fi- 
nally, he bound him, threw him across his horse like a 
sheep, carried him many miles through the woods, put him 
in jail, and had him tried, condemned, and executed. Thus 
bravely commenced the dissolution of this band of lawless 
destroyers. 

You recollect, my dear pupils, that limestone countries 
abound in caves. In Franklin county, near the base of 
the North Mountain, one has been discovered, which is 
very beautiful, and may be regarded as a great curiosity. 
"A gentleman, living near the mountain, was about to dig 
for water. Perceiving a very large spring, issuing out of 
a rock, at the foot of a hill of considerable height, and a 
kind of sink hole, he there commenced digging, hoping to 
come on the stream, and proceeded but a few feet, when he 
could plainly hear the water running, seemingly with great 
rapidity ; and at the distance of about twenty feet from the 
surface, he reached it, at the lower extremity of the fissure 
in the rock, which immediately expanded into a large and 
beautiful cavern, the entrance of which is partially obstruct- 
ed by large rocks, which after advancing a little distance, 
entirely disappear, and instead of scattered rubbish, solid 
rocks appear enamelled with spar of different colours. In 
every direction are to be seen the most beautiful icicles, 
(stalactites) suspended from its^noble, and in some places, 
majestic ceiling. Concretions, without number, and of al- 
most every colour, size and dimension, are seen pointing 
downwards from the ceiling, and inwards from the sloping 
walls — some white, some red, some brown, some green, 
and others transparent as glass, and all solid as marble. 



ISO GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

They threaten the curious adventurer with being torn to 
pieces by the craggy points, if he attempts penetrating any 
farther, and indeed, in some places, he is obliged to pro- 
ceed in a stooping position, in order to avoid them. Con- 
tinuing up this subterraneous passage, you are obliged to 
walk in the run nearly all the way. 

*'Parts of the run are sometimes dry, y&t it is evident, 
from its bed, and other visible marks, that at some seasons 
of the year, the water must flow through the different 
channels in large quantities. 

"There are, in the principal channel, several falls, which 
might very properly be denominated cataracts. ^ The ex- 
tent of the cave is, as yet, unknown, as it has been but 
partially explored; the greatest distance any person has 
yet penetrated, is about 800 feet, at which place there was 
no appearance of its termination. In ascending the cave, 
the eye is most agreeably struck with its grandeur. At 
every step new wonders present themselves. Here, the 
spar is formed into trees, shrubs, etc., which makes it have 
the appearance of a petrified grove. In some places, the 
spar is formed into the likeness of men, birds, beasts, or- 
gans, etc.; and in one place, raised on a pedestal, is a striking 
resemblance of a half-unfurled flag. Besides these, there 
are hundreds of other similitudes, of which I shall not at- 
tempt a description. When we first saw them, we were 
only surprised at their diversity and beauty, but on a more 
minute examination, were struck with amazement, knowing 
them to be mere productions of nature, which hitherto 
in solitary silence, had, in her playful moments, unseen 
and unheared, dressed the scene, as if for her own amuse- 
ment." 



In what part of the state is Franklin county ? In what direction 
from Dauphin ? How bounded ? Principal mountains ? Principal 
creeks? In what direction is Mercersburg from Chambersburg? Green 
village? Waynesburg? Louden? Roxbury? Concord? etc. 

In what valley does Franklin county lie ? 

What is the soil? 

Mention two items resTpccting path valley ? 

What creek separates the limestone formation from the slate ? 

What minerals are found here ? 

What fossils do the limestone sections contain ? 

To what uses is the limestone appropriated ? 



BESPOftI) COtNTY. 181 

To what manufacturing- establishments do the various streams 
■which intersect the county, give motion ? 

What are the principal agricultural productions ? 

To the growth of what Vegetables is the soil peculiarly adapted? 

What quantity of flour is annually sent from this county to Balti^ 
more ? 

The manufacture of what article is beginning to excite interest? 

What species of forest trees are common to the soil of this county? 

Number of large stone bridges ? 

Number of churches ? What benevolent Societies ? 

Of what materials are the buildings of this county constructed ? 

By,whom was the couUty settled ? 

With what kind of schools is it supplied ? 

What three villages are among the most important? 

Which is the county town ? How situated ? 

Who was the original proprietor of Chambersburg ? 

How long since Mr. Chambers selected this spot for the location 
of his town 1 

What was the state of the country at that time 1 

In what way was he protected against the depredations of the In- 
dians % 

What are the public buildings of Chambersburg ? 

What number of newspapers is here printed ? 

To what machines does the water power of Chambersburg now 
give motion ? 

What number of mills have been erected in and near Chambers- 
burg'? 

Describe the building erected for the manufacture of straw paper? 

What advantage, in relation to roads, has Chambersburg? 

What agreement did Mr. Chambers make with the Indians, in re- 
lation to their burying ground? 

How is the Presbyterian church situated^ 

The Presbyterian burying ground? 

To whom were the Indians very troublesome, during the Revolu- 
tionary War? 

Tell the story of the robbers. 

With what natural curiosities do limestone countries abound? 

Can you mention six items relating to a cave discovered nqar th© 
North Mountain? 



— •«»© © ^<«*- 



BEDFORD COUNTY. 

If you are fond of mountain scenery, you would be 
highly delighted with a journey through this romantic 
county. On the east, is the Cove or Tuscarora Mountain, 
farther west we cross the Scrub Hill, Sideling Hill, Town 



182 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

Hill, Clear Ridge, Warrior Ridge, Tussey's Mountain, 
Evitt's or Dunning's Mountain, Will's Mountain, Buffalo 
Ridge, and the Allegheny Mountain, besides numbers less 
important. Much of the country is broken, stony, and unfit 
for cultivation; but between the ridges of mountains, there 
are extensive and lovely valleys, large and productive farms, 
comfortable dwellings, and abundance of the necessaries of 
life. Some of the valleys have a fine limestone soil, highly 
cultivated. 

- Bedford is well timbered, chiefly with white oak, chest- 
nut, hickory, pine, and sugar maple. The turnpike road 
from Philadelphia to Pittsburg passes through this county. 

Here is an abundance of mineral wealth, particularly bi- 
tuminous coal and iron which are of the best quality, and 
abound in almost every part of the county. 

Settlements were commenced in Bedford, by emigrants 
from other parts of the state, and the north of Ireland. 
Subsequently the Germans have moved in, and now occupy 
the richest lands. Many of them belong to the sects called 
Tunkers and Menonites, and are distinguished for industry, 
economy, and success in the acquisition of wealth. 

Bedford is traversed, in various directions, by mountain 
streams, the most important of which is the Raystown 
branch of ihe Juniata. 

The following extract, is inserted, that you may. have a 
picture of rural economy, which is applicable, not only to 
Bedford, but to all the agricultural districts in the interior of 
Pennsylvania. 

" The usual wages of a good hand, when boarding and 
lodging are provided, is from five to seven dollars a month. 
The food of the agricultural laborer, or help, as he is call- 
ed, is the same as that of his employer. No farmer in the 
country could get a hireling, if he made any distinction; 
and the entire family, maids, men and children, wife and 
master eat at the same table. The quality of the fare de- 
pends on the circumstances of the master. Usually, it is 
cofi'ee, wheat bread and bacon, fresh meat, poultry or salt 
fish for breakfast; white bread, bacon, fish or salt meat, 
poultry, with abundance of vegetables or pies, and a glass 
of whiskey, for dinner; tea, and the same sort of meat, 
and bread for supper; sometimes mush and milk in the 
winter, 



BEDFORD COUNTY. 183 

"In summer, farmers work from sunrise to sunset, al- 
lowing an hour, or an hour and a half for breakfast and the 
same for dinner. In winter they breakfast by candle lig-ht, 
and join their work at the first dawn of day. They are 
called to dinner, eat, and go to work again. Such a domes- 
tie as an English butler is unknown, and servants almost as 
much so." 

The accounts relating to clearing, log rolling, etc., ap- 
ply to Bedford and most of the western counties of the 
state. 

"To clear a piece of land, we, in the first place, stake it 
off, and provided with a grubbing hoe, take up by the roots 
every bush and sapling, which a stout man can shake in the 
root by grasping the stem, and bending it back and for- 
wards. If the roots give to this action, it is called a grub, 
and must be taken up. After the land is grubbed, the brush 
is picked up in heaps. We then cut down every thing 
which does not exceed 10 inches across the stump. Such 
parts of the saplings, as are fit for ground poles, are chop- 
ped at the length of 1 1 feet; such parts as are fit for fire- 
wood are left for that purpose, and the top brush is thrown 
upon the heaps made of the grubs. Next, the trees are 
deadened, leaving one or two for shade. This process con- 
sists in chopping, entirely round the tree, a curf of three 
or four inches wide. A tree is not well deadened unless it 
is cut to the red. The advantages of deadening timber are 
immense; labor is saved in chopping, and in burning the 
stuff on the ground. On the other hand, the falling branches 
incommode us for years; covering our ground every winter, 
and causing a great labour in picking up. The trees fall 
over the fences, and demolish them; sometimes they fall on 
horses or cattle, killing or maiming them; and not unfre- 
quently, men and boys have been killed. 

"As soon as the brush will burn, it is fired, and every 
particle consumed. The fire sometimes gets away from 
the workmen, and great harm is committed on fences, 
woods, and mountains. After the clearing is burned, the 
rail timber is chopped, and logged ofi', fences made, and 
the tops of the rail timber hauled home for fire wood. If 
saw logs or building timber, are wanting, they are cut down, 
and hauled off. At any time, between the first of Septem- 
ber and the middle of October, the ground is roughly plough- 



184 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

ed, and wheat is universally the first seed sown, unless we 
clear a patch for potatoes. 

" In eight or ten years, the timber begins to fall rapidly.- 
When the ground is pretty well covered with old logs, the 
farmer begins to burn them by laying the broken limbs, and 
smaller trees across the logs, and putting fire to them; boys 
or women follow to chunk up the fires. In a day or two 
the logs are burnt oflf, at the length of 12 or 15 feet; some- 
times the entire tree is consumed. When the trees are thus 
reduced to lengths, that can be handled by men, the owner 
has a log rolling. He gives the word to 18 or 20 of his 
neighbours, the day before the frolic; and when they 
assemble, the force is divided into two companies. A 
captain is chosen by acclamation, for each party, and 
the captains choose their companies, each naming a 
man alternately. When the whole is formed, they set to 
work, provided with hand spikes, and each company exerts 
itself to make more log heaps than the other. Nothing is 
charged for the work, and the only thing exceptionable in 
the frolic, is the immoderate use of whiskey. In general, 
great hilarity prevails, but their meetings are sometimes dis- 
graced by dreadful combats, between the persons compos- 
ing them. Bedford county, like most mountainous coun- 
tries, possesses a large proportion of stout athletic men. 
Bravery is a predominant feature in their character, and they 
value themselves in proportion to their strength. Hence, 
arise animosities, which are seldom allayed but by battle. 
They possess one noble quality, however, and that is, for- 
giveness of injuries. After a fair trial of strength, though 
each may have been so severely cut and bruised as to be 
disabled for several days, they will meet in perfect harmony, 
and no trace of malice, or even resentment appears. This, 
to one who has already looked upon the indignity of a blow 
as meriting the chastisement of death, seems impossible, 
but there can be no doubt of their tacit reconciliation. 

" The cornhusking is done at night. The neighbours 
meet at dark, the corn having been previously pulled, and 
hauled in a pile near the crib. The hands join it, the 
whiskey bottle goes round, the story, the laugh, and the 
rude song are heard. Three or four hundred bushels are 
husked by nine or ten o'clock, a plentiful supper is provided, 
and sometimes, the frolic ends with a stag dance; that is, 



BEDFORD COUNTY. 185 

men and boys, without females, dance like mad devils, but 
in good humour, to the tune of a neighbour's catgut and horse- 
hair. 

*' Our buildings are made of hewn logs, on an average 
24 feet long, and 20 wide; sometimes a wall of stone, about 
a foot above the level of the earth, is raised as a foundation, 
but in general, four large stones are laid at the corners, and 
the foundation raised on them. The house is covered, 
sometimes with shingles, sometimes with clapboards. A 
building is raised, and covered in a day, without a mason, 
and without a pound of iron. The doors and windows are 
afterwards cut out, as the owner pleases. As the country 
becomes rich, and more densely settled, these hastily con- 
structed buildings give way to more comfortable ones; but 
at present, there are very few buildings in the county, ex- 
cept on the turnpike, of any other material than logs. 

" We raise neither cotton, nor sugar cane, but manufac- 
ture sugar from the sugar maple. This tree, which ar- 
rives at a size, rivalling the largest white oak, flourishes 
in our sandy bottoms, on the sides of our mountains, and 
on the summit of the Allegheny. It is slow of growth, hard 
to kill, but when once dead soon rots. 

" When the sugar season begins, which is usually about 
the first of March, the sugar maker repairs his camp, if it is 
out of order. The camp is a small shed, made of logs, 
covered with slabs or clapboards, and open on one side. 
Immediately before the openings, four wooden forks are 
planted, on which is placed a strong pole. From this are 
suspended as many wooden hooks, as the sugar boiler has 
kettles, which is usually four. Wood is hauled, and it re- 
quires a large quantity to boil during the season. The 
troughs to receive the water, are roughly hewn of cucum- 
ber, white, or yellow pine, or wild cherry, and contain 
from one to three gallons. The trees are tapped with a 
three quarter auger, about one inch, or an inch and a half 
deep. In the hole is placed a spout 18 inches long, made 
of sumach. Two spiles are put in a tree. A good camp 
will contain 150 or 200 trees. When the troughs are full, 
the boiler goes around with a sled, drawn by horses, on 
which are placed two barrels, to receive the water. Having 
filled the barrels, he returns to camp, and fills up the ves- 
sels, which consist of his meat vessels well cleaned. The 
water, which is gathered in, should be immediately boiled. 



186 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

because it makes the best sugar. If left to stand a few days, 
it becomes sour and ropy. The ketdes are filled as they 
boil down, until all is boiled in. 

" In order to ascertain when the syrup is fit to stir off, a 
little of the molasses is taken out in a spoon, and dropped 
into a tin of cold water, and if this thread will break like 
glass when struck with a knife, it must be taken oft' the fire 
and is tit to stir oft". The kettle is set on the ground, and 
stirred till it granulates. Great judgment is required, and 
the most exact attention to take it off" the very moment it is 
fit. If it be taken off too soon, the sugar will be wet and 
tough, if left on too long, it will be burnt or be bitter, and 
scarcely fit for use. Some boilers try it by taking a few 
drops of molasses between the thumb and finger, and if it 
ropes like glue when it cools, it is said to be in sugar. 

" A tree is calculated to produce in a season, a barrel of 
water of 30 gallons, and it requires six gallons to make a 
pound of sugar. This estimate, however, appears too large. 
In Jamaica, it is not unusual for a gallon of raw cane liquor 
to yield a pound of sugar. It is supposed, and there can be 
no doubt of the fact, that our trees have been injured by fire, 
but the fatal cause of their deterioration, is the auger. When 
a tree is cut down, which has been frequently tapped, there 
is a black and rotten streak for a foot above and IdcIow the 
auger holes. The great miracle is, tliat a single sugar tree 
is alive in Bedford. But the Almighty Fabricator of the 
universe, has, in his infinite wisdom and beneficence, be- 
stowed on this precious tree, a tenacity of life, truly won- 
derful. Though every year assailed by the axe, the auger, 
or by fire, it clings to existence, and yields to its ungrateful 
possessor, a luxury and necessary of life, -which, but for it, 
would command a price that would debar its use from the 
poor. The average price of maple sugar is from six to ten 
cents per pound." 

A great deal of iron is manufactured in Bedford. Seve- 
ral furnaces and forges are in operation, and a number of 
others are about to be erected. There are also, numerous 
saw mills, grist mills, merchant mills, fulling mills, and we 
regret to say, that a few years ago, there were 150 distille- 
ries. What the present number is, we cannot tell. There 
are nail factories, iron mills, carding machines, and two con- 
siderable cotton manufactories. 

" The following remarks, of an inhabitant of Bedford 



BEDFORD COUNTY. 187 

county, on education, are applicable to many other parts of 
the state. The system of common school education in Penn- 
sylvania is a bad one. Bedford county has experienced her 
full share of the evil. There is not a state in the Union, 
where the necessity of public provision for education, is 
more intensely felt, and yet there is none in which this sub- 
ject has been more inefficiently treated. Were the rising 
generation of Germans only to speak English, what an im- 
mense change it would create in the resource and wealth of 
the state — what an addition it would give to the happiness 
of thousands, who now suffer for the lack of knowledge^ 
Here when we lose sight of the town of Bedford, with but 
few exceptions, we find hovels for school houses, and men 
who would be retained in no other employment, engaged in 
forming the plastic minds of our children. And even these 
miserable receptacles of knowledge, are so sparingly scat- 
tered around us, that perhaps there are not two for every 
five hundred children in the county." 

There is an academy in the town of Bedford, now under 
the superintendence of the Rev. Mr. Hall, which promises 
much usefulness. 

Bedford is the principal town in Bedford county, and the 
seat of justice. It is situated on the Raystown branch of 
the Juniata, and the principal turnpike from Philadelphia 
to Pittsburg leads through the town. Located on an emi- 
nence, embowered by mountains, and watered by cooling 
streams, it enjoys a most salubrious atmosphere, refreshed, 
even in the midst of summer, with cooling breezes. West 
of the town Will's Mountain rears its green head, and on 
the east is Dunning's Mountain. 

A visit to this interesting spot is most delightful to the 
traveller. We cannot describe to you the pleasure we here 
enjoyed, after a wearisome ride over the mountains.. To be 
refreshed by the cooling breezes, and wholesome water of 
this inviting place, is most grateful to the weary pilgrim. 
After walking through the village, one delightful morning, 
we ascended a. steep hill, and there, perched upon one of 
the highest eminences m Bedford, looked down, with feeling 
emotions of pleasure on the delightful objects, with which we 
were every where surrounded. We there saw, what Blair 
calls a most complete assemblage of beautiful objects, name- 
ly, fields in verdure, scattered trees and flowers, running 
waler^ animals grazing, smoke rising from the distant cot- 



188 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

tages, etc. The deviated hills were covered with the most 
luxuriant verdure, the fields were waving with plenty, the 
joyous husbandman was reaping his abundant harvest, and 
the animals were enjoying an undisturbed and luxuriant re- 
past, on the distant green. All these, and more than these^ 
conduced to fill the mind with elevated emotions, to lead us 
" to look through naiure up to nature's God." 

The buildings of Bedford are mostly of stone or brick, 
the streets are wide, and the town has a business like ap- 
pearance. It is adorned by several handsome public build- 
ings, the most noted of which are five churches, belonging 
to diff'ereni denominations, and the court house, an elegant 
specimen of architecture of the Tuscan order, seen to great 
advantage when approaching the town from the east. Its 
beautiful symmetry, towering columns, and handsome cu- 
pola have a very commanding appearance. 

This town is, however, more particularly noted on ac- 
count of the mineral springs in the vicinity. As we aproach 
the springs, the eye is at once arrested by a number of in- 
teresting objects, some of the most beautiful combinations 
of nature and art. The delightful valley, the bounding hills, 
the spacious and elegant buildings, the circular enclosures, 
the marble fountain, the weeping willows, the rocky emi- 
nences, the winding gravel walks, the shady vale, and the 
healing eflicacy of the ever flowing waters, all conspire to 
renovate the languishing invalid, and to render more vigor- 
ous the healthy. But you wish for some particulars. The 
valley, in which the springs are situated, is about a mile and 
a half from the town. The principal spring issues directly 
from a limestone bluff, and falling 25 feet, mingles with the 
stream below. The elevation of the surrounding hills is 
450 feet. Through this valley, which is a mile and a half 
in length, flows the stream, which has been alluded to, call- 
ed Shaver's creek. One mile east of the borough, this 
stream falls into the Raystown branch. East of the valley 
rises a hill, called Constitution; at the base of which, and 
within a short distance of each other, a number of these 
healing fountains flow. 

The medicinal properties of these springs were discovered 
in 1804, by a mechanic in Bedford. Fishing for trout in a 
stream near the principal fountain, he was attracted by the 
beauty of the waters, flowing from the rock, and drank freely 
of them. They proved cathartic, and sudorific. He had 



BEDFORD COUNTY. 1B9 

suffered many years from rheumatic pains, and from ulcers 
in his limbs. On the subsequent night, he suffered less 
from pains, and slept more quietly than usual. This unex- 
pected relief induced him to make a daily use of the waters, 
both for drinking and bathing, and in a few weeks, he was 
entirely restored to health. The happy effect they had on 
this man, induced other invalids to repair to the springs, 
and in the following summer, many came in carriages, and 
encamped in the valley, to seek from the hand of nature, the 
restoration of their health. Previous to this time, the springs 
were thickly enveloped with brushwood, which rendered 
access to them difficult. The enterprising inhabitants of 
Bedford soon began to remove these obstacles, and the place 
is now highly improved, and much frequented in the sum- 
mer. 

The buildings, for the accommodation of strangers, con- 
sist of three spacious houses, two or three stories high. 
In front of the north building, enclosed within an elegant 
Chinese railing, there is an elevated statue of Hygeia, the 
goddess of health, from which there rises a delightful 
stream of pure water, brought from the principal spring. 
This ornament adds a pleasing, and very tasteful object to 
the surrounding scenery. 

The principal access from the buildings to the several 
springs, is by an elevated gravel walk across the valley to 
a small, and very neat bridge over Shaver's creek. From 
the spring zigzag walks are cut upon the slope of the ad- 
joining hill to its summit. The valley, opposite Anderson's 
spring, is 450 feet wide, an almost perfect level, and beau- 
tifully ornamented with forest trees, scattered over its sur- 
face in every direction. 

Such are some of the interesting objects, with which 
this place abounds ; and from its natural beauties, from the 
facility of obtaining the necessaries and luxuries of life, 
and especially, from the superior medicinal properties of 
its waters, it seems fair to conclude, that it possesses a 
combination of attractions rarely surpassed, and that it 
might be rendered the most inviting watering place in the 
Union. 

This region is also extremely interesting on account of 
its geological structure. To render the springs easy of 
access, and to obtain room for a promenade, for buildings, 
etc., it became necessary to excavate the hill to a considera- 

17* 



190 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

ble distance. By this means, it was discovered, that the 
northern part appears to be composed of limestone, con- 
taining a vein, in which are several varieties of organic re- 
mains. The southern slope is overlaid with sand stone, 
in which are found fossil shells. Many other interesting 
geological facts might be mentioned, which we have not 
room here to detail. 

In what part of Pennsylvania-is Bedford county? How bounded'? In 
what part of the county is the town of Bedford? In what direction 
from Bedford is Martinsburg ? Shellsburg? Werefordsburg '? What 
are the principal streams 1 Describe the Raystown branch. 

Describe three of the largest creeks. 

What are some of the mountains in this county 1 

In what part of the county do we find fertile farms, comfortable 
houses 1 etc. 

What turnpike passes through the county 1 

What minerals abound here ? 

By what emigrants was this county originally settled *? 

What people have possessed themselves of the best land? 

To what sects do many of the Germans in this county belong? 
For what are they remarkable '? 

To what part of the state is the picture of rural economy here given, 
applicable ? 

What is the food of the agricultural labourer ? 

What different members of the same family eat at the same table ? 
• What part of the day do farmers work in summer ? In winter 2 

To what parts of the state may the accounts, which relate to clear' 
ing, log-rolling, sugar making, etc. apply 1 

How do the farmers proceed, when they wish to clear a piece of 
land? 

What inconveniences result from deadening the trees ? 

What from burning the brush ? 

What is invariably the first crop raised upon new lands ? 

In how many years, after deadening the trees, does the timber begin 
to fall ? 

Can you give a short account of log-rolling ? Corn-husking 7 

Of what materials are buildings made ? 

How much time is occupied in raising and covering a building ? 

From what tree do the people, in this county, manufacture sugar ? 

What is the comparative size of the sugar maple tree 1 

At what time does the sugar season begin ? 

What kind of a building is the sugar camp 1 

How is the maple sugar made ? 

What number of trees are contained in a good camp 'i 

What quantity of water will one tree produce in a season ? What 
number of gallons make a pound of sugar 1 Average price of maple 
sligar ? 

Mention some of the manufactories in Bedford county ? 



SOMERSET COUNXy. 191 

When we lose sight of the town of Bedford, what buildings do we 
find for schools ? 

What characters are engaged in teaching ? 

What number of schools are established? 

What literary institutions in the town of Bedford ? 

Which town is the seat of justice ? How situated ? 

What is here mentioned as being most grateful to the weary pil- 
grim ? 

What does Blair consider the most complete assemblage of beauti- 
ful objects 1 

From what eminence may most of these beautiful objects be seen? 

What circumstances are here mentioned, which conduce to fill the 
mind with elevated emotions ? 

What are some of the public buildings, with which Bedford is 
adorned ? 

On what account is Bedford more particularly noted ? 

What are some of the circumstances connected with Bedford 
Springs, which conduce to renovate the languishing invalid ? 
*• Where are Bedford Springs situated 1 Height of the surrounding 
hills ? What stream flows through the adjoining valley ? 

How were the medical properties of these Springs discovered? 

What buildings are erected for the accommodation of strangers ? 

What embellishment in front of the north building"? 

What walks in the vicinity of the springs 1 

Describe the valley opposite Anderson's Spring 1 

What interesting geological facts are here mentioned ? 

SOMERSET COUNTY. 

This county, though situated partly on the main ridge 
of the Allegheny, and traversed, in some other parts by 
mountains, cannot, in general, be termed very hilly. The 
surface is partly rolling, and pardy level. The soil produ- 
ces grain in abundance, and some portions are well adapted 
to meadow grass. 

The minerals, found here, are salt, coal, and iron. Salt 
is abundant in the eastern and northern townships, and coal 
is found in every part of the county. 

Somerset is traversed by three turnpike roads, has good 
bridges principally of stone, and is intersected by numerous 
fine streams. The principal are the Stony creek. Shade 
creek, and Youghiogheny river. 

Somerset, the seat of justice, contains about one hundred 
and fifty dwellings, a court house, a stone prison, an acade- 
my, three churches, and two schools. 

The inhabitants are mostly of German descent, the ma 



192 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

jority of whom profess the Lutheran religion. The county 
contains fifty-two churches, a county Bible Society, nume- 
rous Sunday Schools, and Tract Societies. Schools, in 
which the rudiments of English education are taught, are 
established in every township, and during the winter, they 
are well attended. 

Large quantities of wheat and oats are raised, but farmers 
attend chiefly to grazing. Their breed of cattle is some- 
what peculiar, and is highly esteemed. The butter is of a 
superior quality, and exported in large quantities; much at- 
tention is also given to the raising of sheep ; and they 
manufacture flour, whiskey, iron, great quantities of maple 
sugar, of superior quality, etc. 

In what direction is Somerset from Piiiladelphia ? From Pittsburg? 
How bounded ? What are the principal streams ? Describe Castle- 
man's river, etc. How is Somerset situated ? In what direction is 
Milford from Somerset ? SmiJifield ? Salisbury ? 

What is the face of the country ? Soil ? Minerals ? 

What is said of the roads, bridges, and streams ? 

Which town is the seat of juctice "? 

Of what descent are the inhabitants ? 

What religion do they profess ? Number of churches ? 

What charitable Societies have they ? 

What schools are established ? 

To what object do farmers devote their attention, mostly ? 



CAMBRIA COUNTY. 

This romantic county lies partly in the transition forma- 
tion, partly in the great secondary, and abounds in coal. 

Cambria is one continued mass of mountains ; the Alle- 
gheny being in the eastern part, and Laurel Hill in the 
western. 

The traveller, from the east, beholds, with astonishment, 
the bold and precipitous ascent of the Allegheny. After 
riding from two to five miles, he reaches the summit, and is 
equally surprised to find, that the descent westward is al- 
most imperceptible. The scenery is wild, and the appear- 
ance dismal and forbidding. The Conemaugh river has 
broken its way through these mighty obstructions, and rolls 
along the vales, and between the precipitous heights. 



CAMBRIA COUNTY. 19S 

The soil in the valleys is well watered, and generally 
fertile. 

This mountainows region is densely covered with various 
species of forest trees. Pine, in all its varieties, predomi- 
nates. The huge circumference, and towering height of 
these trees, fill the mind with astonishment, while the rich 
and luxuriant vegetation, presents an aspect, almost impene- 
trable. 

The southern part of the county is crossed by the Alle- 
gheny Portage Railroad, which connects the Juniata with 
the Conemaugh. 

Ebensburg, the seat of justice, is situated on the Alle- 
gheny Mountain, from which the view of the adjoining 
country is extensive and grand. The town and vicinity, is 
mostly peopled by emigrants from Wales and Ireland, who 
are industrious, good citizens, and successful in the acquisi- 
tion of wealth. Ebensburg is a small town, containing 
1000 inhabitants, three churches, a Catholic chapel, a hand- 
some academy, court house, etc. 

Johnstown is situated about seven miles from the base of 
the Allegheny Mountain, at the termination of the Allegheny 
Portage Railroad. The village contains about five or six 
hundred inhabitants, is regularly laid out on a plot of up- 
wards of 200 acres, and is completely surrounded by moun- 
tains. 

The exports consist of cattle in part, but principally of 
lumber, among which the cherry tree furnishes the most 
important article. Maple sugar is made in sufficient quan- 
tities for home consumption. 

In what direction is Cambria from Somerset? How bounded? De- 
scribe the Kiskiminitas river. In what part of the county is Ebens- 
burg? Johnstown? etc. 

What mineral is found here abundantly? 

Surface? Scenery? Soil? 

What river rolls along the valleys between the precipitous heights? 

What timber prevails in the mountains? 

What railroad crosses the southern part of the county? 

Which town is the seat of justice? How situated? 

What is remarked of the population of the town and vicinity? 

In what do the exports consist? 



194 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 



HUNTINGDON COUNTY. 

Huntingdon is one of the most mountainous regions in 
the state, is rich in romantic scenery, and in mineral pro- 
ductions. The soil partakes of every quality, from the 
most prolific limestone, to the most unproductive barren 
slate. 

The principal minerals are iron, lead, bituminous coal, 
salt, and alum. Iron ore is found every where, and in such 
great abundance, that we may almost consider this an iron 
country. It is not, however, equally distributed; some 
parts of the county yield it much more abundantly than 
others. The grand store house of this mineral is Muncy 
Ridge, which runs parallel with the Allegheny Mountain. 
It is a dry, barren chain of hills, having no great elevation, 
but several miles wide, and many miles in length, extend- 
ing from Bedford county, through Huntingdon, and Centre. 

The ore is not only abundant, but it is of the best quality. 
The different kinds have received the denominations of pipe 
ore, needle ore, nest ore, etc. Pipe ore is the best. Buried 
deeply in the earth, and frequently under a stratum oflime- 
stone, it is the most difficult to be obtained. Needle ore, 
though not very valuable, is a singular production; and may 
be regarded as a great curiosity. Some of the pieces are 
highly polished, of a jet black colour, and assume almost 
every form, that fancy could paint. The lumps after being 
broken seem to have been composed of an infinitude of 
needles, all lying in the same direction, the points being 
very sharp, and the buts blunt; and so slight is their cohe- 
rence, that they may be separated with the fingers. 

Ore in this region, is not only various in kind, but the 
situation is equally various. Sometimes large quantities 
are found scattered over the surface of the earth, sometimes 
it is slighdy buried in the soil, sometimes it is in nests or 
bunches of every varied size, sometimes it is found in solid 
blocks, of such coherence as to require the aid of gunpowder 
to separate them. That which is found on the surface, is 
called top ore, that found in bunches, is nest ore, and the 
solid masses are denominated rock ore. 

" Coal is found in the southwest part of the county, salt 
in the northern, lead centrally, and marble of various colours 
and qualities, in several townships. Curious caves have 



HUNTINGDON COUNTY. 195 

been discovered in the limestone regions, in which are sta- 
lactites and other petrifactions. One of the most singular 
of these caves is in Sinking Valley, Tyrone township. 
This valley became celebrated during the Revolution, on 
account of the lead mines wrought here under the direction 
of the state. Here are several streams, which alter, flowing 
a few miles, sink into the earth. Among the swallows, 
which absorb several of the largest streams of this valley, 
that called Arch Spring is the most remarkable. It is a 
deep hollow in a limestone rock, about thirty feet in width, 
with a rude arch of stone hanging over it, forming a passage 
for the water, which gushes forth with some violence, and 
in such quantities as to form a fine stream. After a short 
course, it buries itself again in the bosom of the earth. 
Many pits, nearly thirty feet deep, open into this subterra- 
neous river, at the bottom of which the water appears the 
colour of ink, though as pure as that which sparkles from 
the rocky fountain." 

" The stream again emerges into day, and runs along 
the surface for a few rods among the hills, when it enters 
the mouth of a large cave, whose aperture is sufficient toad-, 
mit a sloop, with the sails full spread. Within, the cave is 
almost twenty feet high, declining somewhat as it proceeds, 
along which runs a ledge of loose rocks, aflbrding a tolera- 
bly safe passage. Having continued about four hundred 
yards into the hill, the cave widens, at a sudden turn, into a 
spacious saloon. At the bottom of this saloon is a pre- 
cipitous fall, and a vortex of amazing force, by which large 
pieces of timber are immediately absorbed, and carried out 
of sight. The water boils up with great violence when 
substances are thrown into it, but- soon subsides. The 
stream is supposed to continue its subterraneous passage, for 
several miles beneath mountains, and to reappear, by two 
branches in Canoe Valley.^ There are a number of valua- 
ble springs, in different parts of the county." 

This county, though situated on the summit of the Ap- 
palachian Mountains, is flourishing, and contains a number 
of flourishing towns and villages. Three printing presses 
are established here. Huntingdon, the county town, is a 
place of considerable trade, and its location is calculated to 
promote its prosperity. The public buildings are a bank, 
a court house, a jail, an academy, and five churches. It 
contains about two hundred dwellings. 



196 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

The entrance to the town is uncommonly beautiful. A 
cending a hill, cut through a solid rock, the traveller, 
once, finds himself in full view of the town, the spires, t. 
gardens, the adjoining cultivated fields, the canal, the rive 
and the surrounding elevation embowered with a most lux' 
riant foliage. 

The State Canal enters this county, and follows the wine 
ings of the river, fifty miles to Hollidaysburg, where it t&f 
minates in a capacious basin. Here, the railroad, across th» 
Allegheny Mountain, commences. 

The northern turnpike, from Philadelphia to Pittsburg 
extends along the banks of the Juniata, through Hunting 
don. The scenery, on this route, is very romantic, grand, 
and even terrific. In travelling westward, on the borders 
of Huntingdon and Mifflin counties, a strongly marked 
view is presented. Here the road is carried along the 
side of an awful precipice. "Avalanches" of rocks and 
loose stones are seen in every direction, apparently ready 
to slide from beneath the feet, or from above, to crush the 
defenceless beholder. 

The exports of the country consist, principally, of iron 
agricultural articles, and lumber. The railroad, and State 
Canal, recently completed, have given a new impulse to 
business. The following list of manufacturing establish- 
ments, will evince a spirit of industry, and enterprise, and 
a woeful attention to the business of distilling ardent spirits. 
There are sixty -two grist mills, eighty -four distilleries, twen- 
ty-four tan yards, one paper mill, one clover mill, one hun- 
dred and twenty saw mills, eleven fulling mills, five oil 
mills, three powder mills, five carding machines, two brew- 
eries, one hemp mill, three furnaces, making altogether 
about 8,000 tons of iron annually, and eleven forges making 
about 3,000 tons of bar iron. 

The following is a description of a Stocking Knitting 
Machine, invented in this county. It occupies about a 
cubic foot, and is operated upon by turning a crank, which 
requires no more power and skill than a common hand organ 
except when it is necessary to widen or narrow the stocking, 
then a stitch is dropped or added by hand. The machine 
does the work of six expert knitters, and is very simple. 
It is superior to the stocking loom, as that requires an ap- 
prenticeship to learn to work it, and is not calculated for 
families. The present machine can be worked by any in- 



HUNTINQDON COUNTY. 197 

Uigent little girl, after a few minutes instruction, and costs 

»ly fifteen dollars, including the patent right. 

.: The statistics from this county, relating to morals and re- 

fgion, are very encouraging. There are thirty-two churches 

.selonging to different denominations. Presbyterians are 

e most numerous. Bible and Tract Societies have 

/een established; various Sunday Schools are instituted, 

nd primary schools are in operation, throughout the 

i?ounty. * 

, * The following interesting- and novel account of Mountain Sail 
ing we cannot forbear to insert. It is dated HoUidaysburg, Nov. 
i834. 

" On Monday last, the inhabitants of Hollidaysburg were permitted 
to witness a novelty, in the tide of emigration, which the completion 
of the grand chain of internal improvements, has caused to flow 
through this channel, and by which, the Mississippi and Delaware 
have been made, as it were, to unite their waters. 

" A gentleman, by the name of Christman, from Lackawanna, a 
tributary of the North Branch of the Susquehanna, embarked with 
his family, in all, consisting of eleven persons, together with the ne- 
cessary requisites for their comfort ; namely, beds, tables, chairs, stoves, 
cooking utensils, poultry, pigeons, etc. etc., on board a canal boat, 29 
feet long and 7 feet wide. In this, he proceeded down the North 
Branch of the Pennsylvania Canal, to the junction of the Central Di- 
vision, and up the latter, to Hollidaysburg. Here he intended to dis- 
pose of his boat, and proceed, by way of the Portage Railroad, and 
Western Division of the canal, to Pittsburg. 

Here, it was suggested to Mr. Christman, that it would be practica- 
ble to pass the boat, together with the family and cargo, over the tra- 
versing height of the Allegheny Mountain. A railroad car, calcula- 
ted to bear the novel burden, was prepared, the boat was taken from 
its proper element, and placed on wheels, and at 12 o'clock the same 
day, the boat, together with the delighted family, began their progress 
over the rugged Allegheny. It was pleasing to see the comfort and 
convenience, which the ingenuity of man has added to the journey of 
the emigrant. The whole family were comfortably located in the 
cabin of the boat, which appeared to glide up the height of the moun- 
tain, unconscious of the change. While some of the family were 
preparing the commg meal, others were lying on their downy pillows 
occasionally roused by the hissing steam, at the head of the inclined 
plain. They were, however, not to be stopped by the hissing of the 
puffing auditory, but continued to ascend, and at night, safely rested 
on the summit of this proud eminence. 

"On the following morning, the boat and crew lefl the sunny 
summit of the Allegheny, and smoothly glided down her iron way to 
Johnstown, astonishing the inhabitants. On the same day she was 
safely deposited in her own element in the basin at Johnstown, amidst 
the plaudits of the congregated citizens." 
18 



198 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

In what part of the state is Huntingdon county ? In what direc- 
tion is Huntingdon froni Dauphin? How bounded? What are the 
principal rivers ? Describe the Juniata. Raystown Branch. Aug- 
wick creek. How is the town of Huntingdon situated ? Alexandria? 
Hollidaysburg? etc. 

For what is this county distinguished ? Soil ? 

Principal minerals ? 

What ridge is the great depot for iron ore in this county 1 

Describe Muncy Ridge ? 

Name the different kinds of ore. 

Which is the best kind of ore ? 

What peculiarities has the Needle ore ? Nest ore ? Rock ore ? 

In what varieties of situation is ore found 1 

In what part of the county is ore found ? Lead ? Salt ? Marble? 

What natural curiosities have been discovered ? 

In what township is found one of the most singular caves? 

What mines were wrought here during the Revolution? 

What peculiarity have several streams in Falling Valley ? 

Describe Arch Spring ? 

What quantity of water gushes from this spring? 

In what does the stream bury itself, after a short course ? 

Depth of the pits, which open into this subterraneous river ? 

Can you mention five other interesting facts respecting this cave ? 

What canal and railroad in this county ? 

Which is the county town ? Public buildings ? 

What turnpike passes through this county ? 

Scenery on the northern turnpike? 

What has been the effect of the State Canal and Railroad, recently 
completed ? 

Mention some of the manufactories. 

Quantity of iron made here annually ? 

What machine has been invented in this county ? 

Number of churches ? Religious denomination most prevalent ? 

What societies have been established ? Schools instituted ? 

What account can you give of Mountain Sailing ? 



PERRY COUNTY. 

We here find ourselves in a region of country whose na- 
tural features are strongly marked. 

On the south, is the Blue or Kittatinny Mountain; on 
the north the Tuscarora, and in the interior are chains of 
less magnitude. The intervening valleys are extensive and 
very fertile. 

A bed of bituminous coal has been discovered, and iron 
is found in various parts of the county. Here is a medi- 
cinal spring, in a romantic situation, surrounded by bold 



JUNIATA COUNTY. 199 

and picturesque scenery. The waters are efficacious in 
some diseases, particularly those of the skin. Near it, is a 
house for the accommodation of visiters. 

The county is peopled, mostly, by the descendants of 
Germans, and contains twenty five churches, belonging to 
Presbyterians, German Reformed, Moravians, Menonites, 
etc. Sunday schools are pretty generally established, and 
primary schools are located in every township. Two week- 
ly newspapers are printed. 

A number of small woollen manufactories have been erect- 
ed, but the principal establishments of this kind, are for the 
manufacture of iron, which are successfully and extensively 
conducted. 

Bloom field, the seat of justice, is situated in the eastern 
part of the county, and has had a very rapid growth. In 
1832 the number of inhabitants was three hundred and fifty; 
and, about five years before, the place Avas a clover field 
without a building upon it. The public buildings are a 
court house, a jail, and a poor house. 

In what direction is Perry county from Philadelphia ? How bound- 
ed ? What mountain on the north ? South ? Describe the Juniata 
river. How is Mifflin situated ? etc. 

What is the surface ? Soil? What spring can you mention ? 

From what people have the inhabitants descendeid ? 

Number of churches ? 

Religious denominations ? 

What schools are established ? 

Manufacturing establishments 1 

Seat of justice ? Public buildings'? 

— ►.►fsee^M- 
JUNIATA COUNTY. 

In this county we find precipitous, sterile mountains, un- 
derlayed by limestone, with intervening fertile valleys. 

The northern turnpike and the State Canal follow the 
windings of the Juniata through the county. 

The county is inhabited by the descendants of Germans 
and Irish emigrants, who are generally Presbyterians, and 
have eight or nine churches. Bible Societies, Tract So- 
cieties, and Temperance Societies have been established, 
and Sunday Schools are numerous. Primary schools are 
pretty well supported. 



200 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

The most important article of exportation is wheat; and 
agriculture is said to be in a thriving condition. 

Mifflin, the county town, is situated on the turnpike 
road. State Canal, and Juniata river. It contains about one 
hundred dwellings, a Methodist church, etc. 

In what direction is Juniata from Huntingdon? How bounded? 
In what part of the county is Mifflin? 
What is the surface of this county? 

What turnpike, canal, and river pass through this county? 
By what people is the county inhabited? 
What religious denomination is most prevalent? 
Number of churches? 
What benevolent Societies? 
What schools in the county"? 
County town? How situated^ 

MIFFLIN COUNTY. 

'I'his little, irregularly shaped mountainous county, you 
will find quite in the interior of the state surrounded by 
mountains, and traversed by several lofty ridges. The 
principal elevations are Black Mountain, Log Mountain, 
Shade Mountain, and Jack's Mountain. Jack's Mountain 
is one of the loftiest ranges of the Appalachian system, in- 
tersecting the county nearly in the centre, and dividing it into 
two principal valleys. The most important of these valleys, 
is called Kishacoquillas, and lies between Jack's Mountain, 
and the range called Seven Mountains. This valley is, in 
length 35 miles, four in breadth, and is one of the most 
beautiful, fertile, and best cultivated tracts in all Pennsyl- 
vania. It abounds in iron ore, of the best quality, and the 
soil reposes upon a blue limestone, of primitive formation. 

In the limestone rocks of this valley, is found Alexander's 
Cave, which abounds in the finest stalactites and stalag- 
mites. The cave is also a natural ice house; ice being 
found here in the heat of summer. Viewed from the sum- 
mit of Jack's Mountain, this valley presents one of the most 
plain and lovely agricultural scenes on which the eye can 
repose. 

The valley of the Juniata river, also in Mifflin county, 
is a fertile and valuable tract of country, though its appear- 
ance is rude and precipitous, when seen by passengers on 



I 



MIFFLIN COUNTY. 201 

the Pennsylvania Canal. In this valley is found Hena- 
wall's Cave, near the village of Waynesburg, and contiguous 
to Jackson's Mountain. This cave is of vast, but unknovi^n 
dimensions, abounds with the finest and most brilliant cal- 
careous concretions, and contains immense quantities of 
nitre, in a crude state. 

On the summit of Limestone Ridge, an elevated peak of 
blue limestone, is a cave of vast depth and of nearly per- 
pendicular descent, called Bevin's Cave. 

Another natural curiosity in this county is the celebrated 
Pass of the Juniata river through the Black Mountain, Log 
Mountain, and Shade Mountain, called " the I^ong Nar- 
rows." The scenery, in this gorge, and along the Juniata, 
above and below it, is remarkably wild, romantic, and beau- 
tiful. Here is seen one of the most elevated peaks in Penn- 
sylvania. 

This county contains immense mines of the best iron 
ore and is underlaid, in all its parts, by primJtive limestone. 

The principal town in Mifflin county is Lewistown, 
situated on the State Canal, at the junction of the Kishaco- 
quillas creek with the Juniata river. This village contains 
about 2000 inhabitants, two churches, a small Catholic 
chapel, a bank, a neat court house, a jail, five school houses, 
one academy, and is the seat of a very active and prosperous 
commerce. 

The surrounding scenery is uncommonly lively, and is 
said to rank among the finest in the state. The valleys are 
most fertile and productive, particularly in the important 
article of wheat. Here we find pure mountain air, streams 
which abound in fish, and forests filled with game of every 
description. 

Sunday Schools, Temperance Societies, and other chari- 
table institutions are maintained here. The Mifflin County 
Lyceum, with a respectable and well selected library, and 
a valuable cabinet of minerals, and other curiosities, is es- 
tablished in Lewistown. Common schools are established, 
and generally well attended. 

Mifflin county abounds with numerous mineral springs 
of excellent medicinal qualities. The principal one, and 
that which is most frequented by invalids, is within half 
a mile of Lewistown, and is called Millikin's Spring. The 
general appearance is highly attractive, and marked with 
unusual beauty. It is similar, in its medicinal properties, 
18* 



202 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

to the Bedford Springs; and it is believed, that at no very- 
distant period, it will become a celebrated watering place. 

The Juniata river. State Canal, and turnpike road extend 
along the southern borders of the county. 

The principal articles manufactured in the county, are 
flour and iron. 

' In what direction is Mifflin county from Cambria? How bounded? 
Principal rivers'? Describe the Juniata river. How is Lewistown 
situated? etc. 

By what natural objects is this county surrounded? 

Principal mountains? 

Mention six items relating to the Kishacoquillas valley. Four relat- 
ing to Alexander's Cave. Four relating to Henawall's Cave. Three 
relating to Bevin's Cave. Three relating to the celebrated pass of the 
Juniata river. 

What mineral is found here? 

Mention twelve items relating to Lewistown. 

What charitable and literary institutions can you mention"? 

With what kind of springs does this county abound"? 

What account can you give of Millikin's Spring? 



UNION COUNTY. 

This county, like a number of others, contains little that 
is particularly interesting. Though not rugged, it is never- 
theless mountainous, being intersected by several different 
ranges. 

Considerable attention has been directed to the discovery 
of iron, but no considerable quantity has yet been found. 
Mineral coal has not been discovered, though indications of 
it are perceptible in many places. 

The valleys of this county are generally fertile, and 
some of them exuberantly productive. Its soil is a rich 
limestone, and its surface, with some few exceptions, is 
well suited to all the purposes of agriculture. 

The inhabitants are mostly Germans, who belong to dif- 
ferent religious denominations, and possess altogether, 21 
churches. Here are Sunday Schools, Temperance Socie- 
ties, Bible Societies, etc. Primary schools are pretty gene- 
rally established throughout the county. At Mifflinsburg 
there is an academy. 

Agricultural pursuits occupy the attention of the inhabi- 
tants generally, but we are sorry to say, that there are 16 



UNION COUNTY. 203 

distilleries in the county, which annually convert into poison 
50,000 bushels of the staff of life. 

The county is well watered, and the State Canal, turn- 
pike road, and Susquehanna river, extend along the whole 
of the eastern boundary. 

New Berlin is the seat of justice, situated on Pine creek. 
It contains about 70 dwellings, a very handsome court 
house, a prison, and two or three churches. The place is 
noted for the manufacture of flour. 

On the banks of the Susquehanna, nearly opposite North- 
umberland, is a very precipitous hill, called Blue Hill, on 
the verge of which are two singularly looking houses. One 
of them has a portico, which is suspended over the river; 
the other leans so much towards the river, that we are ready 
to think it must be blown down. These houses belong to 
a bachelor, who lives here in solitude. His name is Mason, 
called Jonna Mason, He formerly had steps, leading from 
the house down to the river, had a swing, which extended 
half across the river, and another in the house, in which 
he swung himself to sleep. He has a large summer house, 
a spring house, and fruit trees of various kinds — ^has a pair 
of horses, but never rides, or rather never did until lately. 
Now he is old, he sometimes rides in the stage. Occa- 
sionally, he takes out one of his horses, and leads him. 
Thus he lives a monument of folly. 

Lewisburg, on the Susquehanna, is one of the prettiest 
towns in the state, and surrounded by a rich and cheap 
country. The houses are chiefly brick, and neat; the 
churches are also handsome. 

In what direction is Union from Northumberland? How bounded? 
Name the two largest creeks. Into what river do they flow? How 
is New Berlin situated? In what direction is Milton from New Ber- 
Un? etc. 

What is the face of the country? Minerals? Soil? 

By what people is the county inhabited? 

Number of churches? 

What benevolent institutions are established? 

What provision is made for education? 

Which town is the seat of justice? 

What town is said to be one of the prettiest in the state? 

What canal, road, and river extend along the eastern boundary? 

Tell the story of Jonna Mason. 



204: GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 



CENTRE COUNTY. 

This county is so called from its geographical location, oc- 
cupying a central part of the state. It lies wholly within 
the Appalachian system of mountains, and is distinguished 
for variety of scenery, mineral productions, scarcity of water, 
and salubrity of air. In mineral wealth, it is probably not 
exceeded by any portion of the state of equal extent. Iron 
ore, of a superior quality, is found in all parts of the county, 
and bituminous coal, on the Allegheny Mountain. The 
inconvenience, to which the inhabitants are subjected on 
account of an unequal distribution of water, is very great. 
In some places, water cannot be obtained for the common 
purposes of life. The streams are numerous, but several 
of them, after running a short distance, descend through 
the fissures of the rocks, and sink into the earth. Great 
pains have been taken to remedy the evil, and, in some 
places, the rocks have been perforated to the depth of 200 
feet, without obtaining water. 

The editor of the Bellefonte Patriot, speaking of his 
county, says: " It is most emphatically called Centre coun- 
ty y and as it is in the heart of the state, by geographical 
position, so it is the head, by local advantages. True, we 
have mountains, but we have plains, and our mountains are 
as valuable as our valleys. First, they preserve health; we 
have no fever nor chills; second, our mountains abound 
with fine timber of every kind and quality; and third, with 
mineral wealth; and fourth, when fruit is destroyed by frost 
in our valleys, it is preserved on our mountains. In short, 
for fertility of soil, mineral resources, manufacturing advan- 
tages, and every thing which can contribute to man's crea- 
ture comfort and happiness, it is scarcely equalled, certainly 
not surpassed, by any county in the state. It is none of 
your whortleberry, cranberry, or hemlock counties, calcu- 
lated for the nurture of wolves, bears, and panthers, and 
not for the residence of man." 

The exports of the county consist, principally, of clover 
seed, whiskey, iron, and flour. Of the latter, 200,000 
bushels are annually sent to market. There are cotton and 
woollen manufactories, but those of iron are most numerous 
and continually increasing. 



CENTRE COUNTY. 205 

In the county there are two or three turnpikes, and it is 
inhabited, chiefly, by Germans and Irish. 

Bellefonte, the county town, is delightfully situated in a 
rich limestone valley, abounding with inexhaustible resour- 
ces of timber and iron ore. Near the town are very exten- 
sive pits, from which ore has been taken. This town takes 
its name from a large and beautiful spring in the immediate 
neighbourhood. Bellefonte is a French word, the meaning 
of which is beautiful fount. From this spring the town is 
supplied with water by means of a forcing pump. 

Spring creek, on which the town is situated, is a large 
stream of limestone water, which scarcely ever rises, or 
falls, and never freezes. It is rapid, has high precipitous 
banks, and is well adapted to manufacturing establishments. 
It has upon it a great number of furnaces, forges, rolling 
mills, grist mills, saw mills, fulling mills, tilt hammers, and 
oil mills, and affords sites for many more. The town con- 
tains about 700 or 800 inhabitants; has four churches, an 
academy, a court house, a prison, and a cotton manufactory, 
Bellefonte and its vicinity is highly distinguished for salu- 
brity of air, and in this respect, is said to equal any other 
town in the Union. 

In what part of the state is Centre county? How bounded? What 
are the principal streams? Describe the Bald Eagle creek? In what 
part of the county is Bellefonte? In what direction is Wilkersville 
from Bellefonte? Pattonsville? Earlysburg? Phillipsburg? etc. 

Why is Centre county so named? 

For what distinguished? 

What minerals are found here? 

To what inconvenience are the inhabitants subjected? 

What are some of the remarks made by the editor of the Bellefonte 
Patriot? 

What amount of flour is annually sent to market? 

What manufactories are established? 

By what people is the county inhabited? 

Which is the county town? 

What is the situation of Bellefonte? 

From what natural object does the town take its name? 

How supplied with water? 

What is there peculiar respecting Spring creek? 

What are some of the manufacturing establishments on Spring 
creek? 



206 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 



CLEARFIELD COUNTY. 



Here you will find a very spare population; in 1830, 
the number of inhabitants was less than 5,000. 

Like most counties pertaining to the secondary formation 
this abounds in minerals, such as coal, salt, iron, etc. 

The surface is hilly and mountainous; but the mountain 
chains are irregular, being found in every varied form and 
direction. 

The soil is greatly diversified; the limestone lands and 
river bottoms are rich and productive. The scenery is 
grand and picturesque, and the inhabitants are favoured with 
a healthy and salubrious atmosphere. 

The county is well watered, chiefly by the west branch 
of the Susquehanna and its various tributaries. 

Clearfield, the county town, and site of an Indian town, 
is situated at the base of a number of hills, not so high but 
their peaks can be scanned at one view. These hills, co- 
vered with a variety of forest trees, being free stone, and 
having a good soil, impart to the town, lying on a plain, 
quite a romantic appearance. The town contains a court ~ 
house, a handsome brick academy, a printing press, a 
Catholic chapel, various mechanics' shops, stores, etc., and 
an industrious population. 

The exports from the county consist, principally, of 
wheat, timber, coal, and iron. 

Bituminous coal, of the finest quality, is found here. 

In what direction is Clearfield county from Dauphin? How bound> 
ed? What is the principal river? Describe the West Branch? etc. 

What is the population of the county? Soil? Surface? Climate? 
Exports? What coal is found here? 

County town? How situated? 



LYCOMING COUNTY. 



In this county is found variety in scenery, in cultivation, 
in productions, and in the geological formation. As we 
travel through the rich valleys, which skirt the streams, we 
find ourselves in a region of cultivation, beauty, and gran- 



LYCOMING COUNTY. 20? 

deur. Here are seen villages, farm houses, and farms^ 
Leaving them, we behold nature in all its wildness. Unless 
we occasionally discern footsteps of the huntsman or sur- 
veyor, scarcely a trace of the hand of man is to be seen. 
The panther, the wolf, the bear, the rattlesnake, the elk, 
and the deer roam about the forests, and, fearless of danger, 
hold undisturbed possession of the w^ilds. When there is 
a scarcity of acorns and other nuts, the bears come out of 
their lurking places, and commit dreadful depredations. 
They do not molest men, but are destructive to fields of 
grain, and carry off hogs and other domestic animals. 

The surface of Lycoming is very mountainous, and the 
chains irregular and broken. The Allegheny, and several 
other ridges traverse the county, which is intersected by 
numerous streams. The West Branch, Bald Eagle creek, 
Kettle creek, Lycoming creek, and Loyalsock are some of 
the more important. In the Muncy range is found a singu- 
lar valley of an oval form, ten miles long and five wide. 
Several streams take their rise in the surrounding moun- 
tains, and flowing into this valley, sink into the earth, and 
meander in subterraneous regions. 

The minerals found in this county, are iron and bitumi- 
nous coal. To reach this coal, the State Canal has been 
excavated along the West Branch, to the mouth of the Bald 
Eagle. 

The public buildings are a court house and public offices, 
of brick, a large stone prison, an academy, and fifteen 
churches. 

A great number of towns in Pennsylvania are beautifully 
situated; perhaps few are more so than Wiiliamsport, the 
county town of Lycoming. It stands on a rising vale of 
the Susquehanna. A good deal of taste is displayed in 
many of the buildings; the churches are neat, the court house 
is elegant, surmounted by a bell and a handsome cupola, 
from which there is a very fine view of the surrounding 
country. In whatever direction the eye is turned, objects 
of interest arrest the attention, as the meandering streams, 
the canal, the bridge over the canal, the richly cultivated 
fields, the productive hills, and the mountainous eminences. 
The bold ascent of the Bald Eagle adds grandeur to the 
scene. 

At Mill Hall, a small village, is a starch factory, where 
this article is manufactured from wheat. It is first soaked 



208 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

in large hogsheads for four successive days, the water being 
changed daily, and the wheat put into another vessel. It 
is then ground, and being allowed to stand, the starch is 
precipitated to the bottom, while the chaffy particles float 
on the surface. After repeated washings, the starch is put 
into bags, and allowed to drain, and then is spread on vats, 
where it is dried, either by the sun or the heat of stoves. 
Next, it is barrelled and sent to market. A bushel of wheat 
yields about 25 pounds of starch. 

Tarrandsville is situated nftar the head of the improve- 
ments, on the west branch of the Susquehanna, and is the 
nearest point from the Atlantic, to the great Bituminous 
Coal Mine of Pennsylvania. It is a flourishing town, has 
had a rapid growth, and contains an industrious and tem- 
perate population. 

The inhabitants of this county are composed of the de- 
scendants of Irish, Germans, and emigrants from other parts 
of the state. The religious denominations, most prevalent, 
are Presbyterians, Methodists, German Lutherans, etc. A 
county Bible Society has been formed, and Sunday Schools 
are pretty . generally established. Common schools are 
found in all the towns and more populous parts of the county, 
and at Williamsport there is an academy. Three weekly 
newspapers are published. 

Here is a woollen factory, and 50 mills; but the principal 
article manufactured in the county is iron. The exports 
consist of iron, bituminous coal, and agricultural articles. 
A railroad is now in progress from Williamsport to Elmira 
in New York, the length of which will be 67 miles. 

You are aware, my dear pupils, that our rivers are usu- 
ally frozen, during the winter, and that much damage is 
often done by the breaking up of ice. The following inci- 
dent, dated Williamsport, Feb. 8, 1832, will show how 
dangerous it is to venture upon the river, when the ice is 
moving down. 

" On Saturday evening last, the ice in the West Branch, 
which had been formed since the late freshet, took its de- 
parture for the Chesapeake Bay. The river was exceed- 
ingly high, and it passed off" smoothly, doing but little injury 
as we have yet learned. An accident, however, occurred, 
which is, we think, without a parallel in the history of ice 
freshets upon the Susquehanna. About dark, on Saturday 
evening, Mr. Joseph Bailey, of the island opposite Jersey 



LYCOMING COUNTY. 209 

Shore, in endeavouring to secure a flat boat, which lay near 
the lower end of the island, exposed to the loose ice, ven- 
tured into it, and at that moment, a large quantity of ice 
came in contact with the boat, broke the rope, by which it 
was fastened, and drove it past the point of the island. 
The riv^^r being entirely covered with floating ice, his la- 
mentable cries for assistance were in vain; no human power 
could rescue him from his perilous situation. About mid- 
night, several citizens of Jersey Shore, arrived at the bo- 
rough, and gave the alarm. A light was placed upon the 
bank of the river to attract his attention and in a few minutes 
he passed by, without the least possibility of saving him. 
He informed us, that he was almost perished with cold and 
fatigue, and that he was not able to escape from the ice, 
with which he first started. All hope of saving him, except 
at the bridge, was now abandoned, and an express was sent 
on to Milton to make preparations. He passed over the 
race ground rapids, and through the breach of the Muncy 
Dam before daylight, and arrived at Milton about 9 o'clock 
in the morning, after a voyage of near fifty miles. The 
spirited citizens of Milton, whose conduct on this occasion 
is deserving of the highest praise, had every means pre- 
pared to save the life of a fellow being, which ingenuity- 
could invent, and it is with unbounded pleasure we state, 
they were successful. He was drawn up by a rope, sus- 
pended from the bridge, amid the shouts of the assembled 
multitude. 

" Who can imagine the feelings of his relations and friends, 
during his absence, particularly of his bosom companion, 
and aged mother. Ten thousand deaths would have been 
more tolerable, than the agonizing state of uncertainty which 
involved his fate. . Tongue cannot describe the feelings 
which were excited in our own borough, where none were 
bound to him by the endearing ties of conjugal affection or 
maternal love."* 

In what part of the state is Lycoming? How bounded? Principal 
streams? Describe the West Branch. Loyalsock. Pine creek. How 
is Williamsport situated? In what direction is Jersey Shore from 
Wiliiamsport? etc. 

What objects are seen as we travel through the valleys, in this 
county? 

* Hazard's Register. 
19 



210 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

Leaving the valleys v^^hat do we behold? 
What animals hold possession of the wilds in this county? 
Under what circumstances do the bears commit great depredations? 
To what place does the State Canal extend in this county? 
For what object? 
What are the public buildings? 
Seat of justice? How is Williamsport situated? 
What are some of the objects seen from the cupola of the state 
house? 

At what place is there a starch factory? How is starch made? 

Mention three particulars relating to Tarrandsville? 

Of what people do the inhabitants of Lycoming consist? 

What benevolent Society has been formed here? 

What schools established? Number of newspapers printed? 

Most important article manufactured? 

What railroad is now in progress? 

Tell the story of the man on the ice? 



TIOGA COUNTY. 

This county is rich in iron, and contains excellent coalj 
which is highly prized by smiths. 

The surface of the county is diversified. Some parts 
are smooth and unbroken, others rough and mountainous. 
The soil is equally various; in that part of the county 
through which the Tioga flows, it is of a superior quality, 
and the county is thickly inhabited. 

Tioga is well timbered. The more elevated parts, near 
the margins of large streams, are covered with a luxuriant j 
growth of white pine. The inhabitants are well supplied « 
with sugar from the sugar maple, which is very abundant 
in many places. 

This county was settled by emigrants from Connecticut. 

Some iron works have been established here, but the in- 
habitants are chiefly employed in the lumber business. In 
the spring of 1832, 5,000,000 feet of sawed lumber were 
rafted down the streams. 

Wellsboro is the seat of justice, situated in the centre of 
the county. It contains about 50 dwellings, a court house, 
a jail, and an academy. There is also a primary school 
in the same place, and similar schools are established in the 
more thickly settled parts of the county. A railroad is now 
in progress to the New York line, from the coal mines 
of Blossburg; and will not fail to add greatly to the wealth 
of the county. 



i 



POTTER COUNTY. 211 

In what part of the state is Tioga? How bounded ? 
Describe the Tioga river ? Cawanesque creek ? Pine creek ? How 
is Wellsboro situated ? etc. 

What minerals are found in this county ? 

What is the surface of this county ? Soil ? 

Mention some of the forest trees ? 

By wliat emigrants was the county settled ? 

Chief employment of the inhabitants ? 

What quantity of timber was exported in the spring of 1832 ? 

Which town is the seat of justice? How situated? 

What schools in the county ? 

What railroad is mentioned ? 

POTTER COUNTY. 

Here we find high tableland, deeply furrowed by nume- 
rous streams, which rise in the interior, and traversing deep 
ravines, intersect the county in every direction. Several 
important streams have their source in this county, and it 
is a curious fact, that the waters run north, south, east, and 
west. 

Potter county contains upwards of 2500 inhabitants, and 
is rapidly increasing. A good turnpike road leads from 
Jersey Shore, in Lycoming county, to Coudersport, the 
county town of Potter county, and the great east and west 
road, running across the northern tier of counties, crosses 
this county. 

Coudersport, the county town, is situated on the Alleghe- 
ny, a few miles from the source. It has a court house, a 
handsome stone building, numerous dwellings, and various 
mills have been erected in this, and other parts of the 
county. 

The road, from Hittle creek Bridge to Lymansville, about 

five miles from Coudersport, passes, for a short distance, 

i along the top of a high ridge, not more than two rods wide, 

and is steep, on each side, as the roof of the house, called 

by the inhabitants, the "Hog's Back." To the traveller, 

I the trees at the foot of the hill, look like mere bushes. 

! The waters from the northern side of the ridge run into 

I Genesee river, then into the lake, and thence down the St, 

I Lawrence. Those from the southern side run into a 

creek which empties into the west branch of the Susque^ 

Ijanna, 



212 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

The strearns in Potter county abound in excellent trout 
and the woods with deer. Elk and bears are also found. 
Here are various salt licks. 

In the forests are found hemlock, wliite pine, wild cherry, 
white walnut, cucumber, etc, etc ; but that, which princi- 
pally prevails, is the beech and sugar-maple. Of the latter 
there are vast numbers, suitable for the manufacture of 
maple sugar. The maple molasses is far superior to any 
molasses made from the sugar cane. 

The soil of this county is free from stone and easily cul- 
tivated. In the southern part are bituminous coal and lime. 

The following letter from a farmer, who settled here at 
an early period, will aid us in forming a just estimate of the 
county. He says, "It was very lonesome for a number of 
years. People would move in, and stay a short time, and 
move away again. I made some little clearing, and plant- 
ed some garden seeds, etc. the first spring. We brought a 
small stock of provisions with us. On the third of July, I 
started with my two yoke of oxen to go to Jersey Shore to 
mill, to procure flour. I crossed Pine creek 80 times go- 
ing, and 80 times coming from mill ; was gone 18 days, 
broke two axletrees of my wagon, upsettwice, and one wheel 
came off in crossing the creek. 

" Jersey Shore was the nearest place to procure provi- 
sions, and the road was dreadful. The few seeds that I 
was able to plant the first year, yielded but little produce. 
We, however, raised some half grown potatoes, some tur- 
nips, and soft corn, with which we made out to live without 
suffering, till the next spring. At planting time, I planted 
all the seeds, that 1 had left, and when I finished planting,, 
we had nothing to eat but leeks, cow cabbage, and milk, 
we lived on leeks and cow cabbage, as long as they kept 
green, about six weeks — my family consisted of my wife 
and two children, and I was obliged to work, though faint 
for want of food. 

"The first winter, the snow fell very deep. The first 
winter month, it snowed 25 days out of 31, and during the 
winter months, it snowed 70 days. I sold one yoke of oxen 
in the fall, the other yoke I wintered on browse, but in the 
spring, one ox died, and the other I sold to procure food 
for my family, and was now destitute of a team, and had 
nothing but my own hands to depend upon, to clear my 



POTTER COUNTY. 213 

lands and raise provisions. We wore out all our shoes the 
first year, we had no way to get more, no money, nothing 
to sell, and but little to eat, and were in dreadful distress 
for want of the necessaries of life. I was obliged to work 
and travel in the woods barefooted. After a while our 
clothes were worn out, our family increased, and the chil- 
dren were nearly naked. I had a broken slate that I brought 
from Jersey Shore. I sold that, and bought two fawn skins, 
of which my wife made a petticoat for Mary ; and Mary 
wore the petticoat till she outgrew it, then Rhoda took 
it, till she outgrew it, then it fell to Abigail, and she wore 
it out. 

*' For several years my crops were much injured by 
frost, and my fruit trees would not grow well ; but for sev- 
eral years past, my crops have been seldom injured by frost, , 
and my fruit trees grow and bear remarkably well. My 
land was given to me, and I now have 16 acres cleared on 
this farm. 

"I have now 11 in my family, have 16 head of neat 
cattle, 29 sheep, and have sustained some losses. I have 
endured some hardships here, but it is a healthy country, 
the water is fine, and the land, if well tilled, produces good 
crops. The country has hitherto settled slowly ; but popu- 
lation and improvements are rapidly increasing, and the 
prospects of the country are very encouraging. 

"I raise, on my small farm, an abundance of all the ne-. 
cessaries of life, and have always something to spare. 
Our children often cried for bread, during the first years of 
our settlement here, but we have now bread enough and to 
spare, and all other needed temporal comforts, wherewith 
we are all contented, and for which, I hope we render a 
daily tribute of heartfelt gratitude. 

"The morals of the people here, have improved in pro-, 
portion to the country. Until within a few years past, 
Potter county seemed to be a sink of iniquity ; drunken- 
ness and profanity. Sabbath-breaking and gambling were 
the leading features of the state of society ; but the scene 
is now greatly changed, and enterprise, industry, sobriety, 
peace and good order, and religion have gained the ascen- 
dency. We now raise buildings without a drop of spirits 
being drunk on the occasion, without any broils and con-^ 
ientions, and without an oath. We have stated preaching 
19* ^ ^ 



214 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

by different denominations at Coudersport; and the Sabbath 
day is generally regarded."* 

In what part of the state is Potter county ? How bounded ? 

Tn what part of the county is Coudersport ? 

Mention some of the rivers. County town ? 

Describe what is called the "Hog's Back." 

In what animals do the woods and streams abound ? 

Principal forest trees ? 

What is the surface of the county ? Population ? 

What does a settler say about his own trials ? His comforts ? 

The climate ? Population and improvements ? 

Morals of the people? 

M'KEAN COUNTY. 

This county, like the preceding, is litde else than a 
wilderness. In 1830, the inhabitants amounted to only 
1438. Since that period, however, the population has con- 
siderably increased. 

In a county thus sparsely inhabited, and the people scat- 
tered over the soil, little provision can be expected, either 
for their moral or intellectual necessities. One newspaper 
is published, an academy is endowed at Smethport, and at 
the same place there is a brick court house and a stone prison. 
Arrangements are making for the establishing of public 
schools in every district. 

M'Kean is every where hilly along the streams, but con- 
tains no mountains. It abounds in coal, iron,' and salt; and 
lime has recently been discovered. Coal is found every 
where, and some attention is paid to the manufacture of 
salt. 

This county is well watered by streams, which are tribu- 
tary either to the Allegheny or West Branch. "Almost 
every part, contiguous to the main waters, is perforated 
with smaller streams, which extend from five to 15 miles 
into the interior ; and these secondary streams, are again 
supported by waters, descending the brooks and spring runs, 
so there can scarcely be a hundred acres of land, calculated 
for a farm, which is not watered, either by a main stream, 
or a brook. The side hills are a gentle slope, until near 

* Hazard's Register. 



M kean county. 215 

the summit, where they become steeper. When the sum- 
mit is gained, it is common to find an uninterrupted level 
for miles in extent ; disturbed, only, by here and there, a 
gentle rolling of land, or a spring run. Here are thou- 
sands of acres of finely timbered woodland ; and so level 
is the surface, so straight and thrifty the timber, and the 
woods so open, that a squirrel may be seen running, from 
40 to 50 rods in advance." 

So well is this county adapted to grazing, that, even in 
its natural state, it affords good pasturage, and cattle will 
fatten in the woods during summer, and become good beef 
by fall. On the Allegheny flats, shagbark walnuts are so 
abundant in some seasons, that hogs are turned out to fatten 
on those that fall from the trees. The various kinds of 
fruits are cultivated here with success, and there is no coun- 
ty in the state, where the appletree grows more fair or 
thrifty. 

Much attention is paid to the business of lumber, and 
3,000,000 feet of boards are annually sent from this county 
to market. Salt works are however established here, and 
some of the inhabitants are employed in the manufacture of 
salt. 

There is an abundance of wild game in the unsettled 
parts of the county, and the rivers abound in fish. Here 
are bears, deer, panthers, wolves, wild cats, geese, ducks, 
partridges, etc. 

Says a gentleman, well acquainted with this county, 
"however neglected M'Kean has hitherto been, it is des- 
tined to see a brighter day. The natural course, for a canal 
to unite the Atlantic with the Lakes, runs through this 
county, and must, sooner or later, be made." When this 
work shall have been completed, M'Kean will soon rise into 
eminence. 

The early settlers of this county endured many privations 
and hardships. They found it a dense wilderness, without 
a road, or an inhabitant, save the beasts of the forests, some 
of which were very ferocious. Corn was, at times, sold 
for two dollars per bushel, and salt for fourteen. 

In what direction is M'Kean from Wayne ? How bounded ? 
In what part of the county is Smethport ? Mention some of tiie 
rivers. 
In what respects is this county like the preceding one ? 
What is the surface ? Minerals ? 



216 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

How is the county watered ? 

To what agricultural article is the county particularly adapted ? 
What fact is mentioned, which evinces the abundance of shagbark 
walnuts ? 

To what business do the inhabitants pay much attention ? 

Mention some of the wild animals. 

Mention five items relating to the first settlers. 



MISCELLANEOUS QUESTIONS.— NO. 3. 

In what direction is York county from Greene ? 

What College at Carlisle ? 

What county is between Bedford and Adams ? 

By what mountain is Perry county bounded on the north ? 

What Theological Seminary is located near Gettysburg? 

Principal creek in Franklin county ? 

Where are Bedford Springs ? 

Where is Dickinson College ? 

In which county is Gettysbui'g the seat of justice ? 

In what direction is Potter county from Centre ? 

What article furnishes materials for building, fencing, and unfail- 
ing sources for manure? 

Which way is Cumberland county from Perry? 

In which county is Carlisle the seat of justice? 

Where is Chambersburg? 

How were the medical properties of Bedford Springs discovered? 

Where is straw paper manufactured? 

In which county do we find hovels for school rooms? 

In which county is Bloomfield the seat of justice? 

What creek in the northern part of Cumberland county? 

In what direction is Juniata from Union? 

What animals hold possession of the wilds in Lycoming county? 

What counties border on the State of New York? 

In what direction is M'Kean from Clearfield? 

What cave near Carlisle? 

On what river is Williamsport situated? 

In which county are men engaged in teaching, who would be re- 
tained in no other employment? 

What article is found in Peach Bottom township York county? 

In what direction is Adams county from Philadelphia? 

Huntingdon from Berks? 

In which county is Bellefonte? 

In which county is much attention paid to the cultivation of the 
sunflower? 

In which county is seen the first great chain of hills west of the 
Atlantic? 

On what account is Bedford particularly noted? 

What river and canal intersect the county of Perry, Juniata, and 
Huntingdon? 



MISCELLAKiEOUS (QUESTIONS. 217 

To what place did Congress retire when driven from Philadelphia, 
in 1777? 

On what river is Williamsport situated? 

In which county is Bedford the seat of justice? 

What mountains traverse Huntingdon county? 

What town takes its name from a large and beautiful spring? 

In which county is Mifflin the seat of justice? 

In which county has a Stocking Knitting Machine been invented? 

In which county had the people serious and bloody contentions 
about their boundaries? 

What town is situated at the commencement of the Allegheny Port- 
age Railroad? 

What mineral is found abundantly in Centre county? 

In what county are York Sulphur Springs? 

What kind of sugar is made in many of the counties? 

What county has not more than two miserable schools to every 500 
children? 

What is the location of Centre county? 

To what great inconvenience are the inhabitants of Centre county 
subjected? 

In what ridge is iron ore found abundantly? 

What manufacturing establisliment at Mill Plall? 

What county is north of Cambria? 

Which county is a mass of mountains? 

Extent of Muncy Ridge? 

What mines were wrought in Huntingdon during the Revolution? 

In what direction is Union from Northumberland? 

In which county is Somerset the seat of justice? 

Seat of justice in Huntingdon county? 

Describe the Bald Eagle creek. 

Describe the West Branch. Raystown Branch. 

For what is Steystown, in Somerset county, distinguished? 

In what direction is Perry from Cumberland? 

Through what counties does the x\llegheny Portage Railroad pass? 

What river and canal bound Union county on the east? 

On what mountain is Ebensburg situated? 

Wliat were some of the privations of a settler in Potter county? 

Principal river in Lycoming county? 

What counties are bounded east by the Susquehanna river? 

Which way is Tioga from Bradford? 



218 



GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 



LETTER XVIII. 

WESTERN PENNSYLVANIA. 

Jl Description of the Counties, with the Principal Towns, 
etc. 

Western Pennsylvania will now engage our attention. 
You will recollect that this region abounds in bituraiiious 
coal, salt, and iron, and belongs almost exclusively to the 
secondary formation. 



Counties. 


When formed. 


Population in 1830. 


Greene, 


1796, 


18,028 


Fayette, 


1783, 


29,172 


Washington, 


1781, 


42,784 


Westmoreland, 


1773, 


38,400 


Allegheny, 


1788, 


50,552 


Beaver, 


1800, 


24,183 


Butler, 


1800, 


14,681 


Armstrong, 


1800, 


17,625 


Indiana, 


1803, 


14,252 


Jefferson, 


1804, 


2,025 


Venango, 


J800, 


9,470 


Mercer, 


1800, 


19,729 


Crawford, 


1800, 


16,030 


Warren, 


1800, 


4,697 


Erie, 


1800, 


17,041 



GREENE COUNTY 

This county, though not so much improved as some of 
the adjoining ones, is, nevertheless, an interesting part of 
the state, and has many advantages. It abounds in salt, 
iron, and coal. Of the latter, vast quantities are found, not 
only in the hills, but, in many places, along the margins of 
the streams. Big Whitely creek rolls the whole volume of 
its waters over a stratum of coal. Durmg summer, when 
the creek is low, the surrounding inhabitants lay in stores 
of fuel from this bed. The only cost is the labour of dig- 
ging and transporting the coal. 

flills and valleys diversify the surface of this county, 



eREENti COUNTY. 219 

while the soil is equally various. In some places it is 
wholly composed of gravelly barrens; but the valleys and 
river bottoms are among the richest, most productive, and 
most beautiful in Pennsylvania. 

Numerous streams intersect the county in different 
directions, and are tributary either to the Ohio or Monon- 
gahela. The last mentioned river washes the whole eastern 
boundary. 

The uncultivated regions are covered with the most luxu- 
riant forest trees, and excepting the western part, which is 
too hilly for cultivation, the soil is adapted to all the pur- 
poses of agriculture; but the employment, which the far- 
mers consider the most profitable, is that of raising horses, 
cattle, sheep, and swine. Immense droves are annually 
sent from here to the eastern parts of the state, and to Mary- 
land. Large quantities of flour and whiskey are transport- 
ed to Pittsburg, and then sent down the Ohio to New 
Orleans. 

All the more important streams, are crossed by substantial 
bridges, and the common roads are numerous and well 
made, but there are no turnpikes. 

While the red men of the forest still roamed over the 
soil, emigrants from Maryland and Virginia established 
themselves in this county. The Indians soon became dis- 
satisfied with their proceedings, and their native ferocity 
broke out into acts of violence against the unprotected set- 
tlers. In their persons and their property they were as- 
sailed; and, for the first seven years, their fortitude was 
severely tried. Now, the winter evenings of their descend- 
ants are frequently employed, in recounting the privations, 
the courage, the patient endurance of their ancestors. At 
present, the county is occupied by persons from all parts of 
the United States, and some from Germany, England, and 
Scotland. 

Here are a great variety of religious denominations; the 
most numerous, however, are the Methodists. Primary 
schools are established in every township; two academies 
have been incorporated, and the county contains Tract So- 
cieties, Bible Societies and Missionary Societies. 

The principal manufacturing establishments are 40 grist 
mills, 40 saw mills, 20 fulling mills, six oil mills, one wool- 
len factory, and a large glass manufactory, near Greens- 
burg. 



220 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

Waynesburg is the seat of justice, situated very near the 
centre of the county, in a beautiful valley surrounded by a 
prolific country. It contains about 80 or 100 dwellings, 
three houses for public worship, the court house, a hand- 
some brick building, a stone jail, and a fine school is here 
established, in which are taught the higher branches of edu- 
cation. 

In what part of the state is Greene county? How bounded? 

Describe the Monong-ahela river. Ten mile creek. 

In what part of the county 'is Waynesburg situated? 

In what direction from Waynesburg is Clarkesville ? Lisbon ? 
Greensburg? etc. 

In what part of the county is bituminous coal found? 

What is the surface and soil ? 

What employment do the farmers of this county consider most pro- 
fitable ■] 

What is said of the roads and bridges ? 

By what emigrants was this county originally settled? 

By whom were these emigrants frequently assailed ? 

Most numerous religious denominations ? 

What benevolent Societies can you mention ? 

What schools are established ? 

What manufactory is established near Greensburg ? 

How is Waynesburg situated ? 

FAYETTE COUNTY. 

This is a mountainous portion of the state, having Laurel 
Hill on the eastern boundary, and Chestnut Ridge cross- 
ing the county centrally. Coal and iron abound in every 
part, salt springs occur frequently in the south and west, 
and some salt works are established. In the vicinity of 
Chestnut Ridge, Sulphur Springs are found. The soil is 
various, being composed of slate, gravel, and limestone. 

Fayette is bounded oh the east by the Monongahela, 
which receives a number of tributaries from this county. 
The Youghiogheny enters the county east of Laurel Hill, 
breaks through that mountain in a westerly direction, flows 
round the Sugarloaf Mountain, and crosses the country di- 
agonally, cutting in its course the Chestnut Ridge. 

The towns and villages are numerous. Union, ,the seat 
of justice, has a central situation a few miles west of Chest- 
nut Ridge, and contains 300 dwellings, four churches, a 
number of schools, a court house and jail. 



FAYETTE COUNTY. 221 

Brownsville, on the east bank of the Monongahela river, 
is a flourishing town, situated in a rich and highly cultiva- 
ted country. It contains about 220 dwellings, a bank, five 
churches; four schools, a steam engine factory, a steamboat 
yard, a glass factory, etc. A convenient bridge over Dun- 
lap's creek, connects this town with Bridgeport, and a very 
fine bridge over the Monongahela, is probably completed 
before this time. 

" Connellsville and New Haven are growing villages, 
and bid fair to become important as manufacturing places. 
They are situated on the banks of the Youghiogheny, a 
precipitous and fretful stream, and are so intimately connect- 
ed, that they are sometimes considered as one. The ma- 
jmfacture of woollen cloths, paper, and iron, is carried on 
here to a considerable extent. There are two paper mills, 
each of which manufactures 3000 reams of paper. A visi- 
ter remarks, 'I liad but an imperfect notion, till lately, of 
the amount of labour and materials, used in the manufacture 
of paper. Besides the rags, they use scraps of glue, tallow, 
lard, alum, twine, indigo, vitriol, soap, wood, etc. etc. 

"The situation of Connellsville is at the foot of a large 
hill, and directly upon the banks of the Youghiogheny, 
The hill abounds with coal which is delivered in any part 
of the town at three cents a bushel. A gentleman, who 
owns a coal mine just by, had been in the practice of having 
a supply always ready at the mouth of the port, and which 
he sold at one and a half cents; but he was obliged to dis- 
continue the practice as many loaded their carts and wagons 
and forgot to account for it. The idea is not, that they 
were dishonest, but the abundance and cheapness of the 
article caused perfect indifference." 

Before the Revolution, General Washington was a fre- 
quent visiter to this neighbourhood. He had a friend, 
Colonel Crawford, who resided within a short distance from 
the town, and to whom his visits were paid. The house 
is now standing where the great man, in his earlier days, 
partook of his friend's hospitality, and joined in the dance. 
One of the sisters of Colonel Crawford is still living, who 
was often Washington's partner at the balls. Colonel 
Crawford was taken by tlie Indians, and burnt at the stake. 

" Palpable evidence of great destruction of coal, by fire, 
is visible in many places among the hills, before the country 
was setded by the whites. That the pits were set on fire 
20 



222 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA* 

by the natives, either by design or accident, there is but 
little doubt; that the burning continued till the banks fell 
in and smothered the fire, is the most rational way of ac- 
counting for the discontinuance of the burning."* 

The religious denominations most prevalent are Pres- 
byterians, and Methodists, who have numerous churches in 
every part of the county. Here are Tract Societies, Tem- 
perance Societies, Sunday School Associations, and a county 
Bible Society. An academy has been established at Union, 
and common schools are well supported. The inhabitants 
are mostly engaged in the business of agriculture. Large 
quantities of grain are raised, and a great deal of flour is 
transported to Washington and Baltimore by the national 
turnpike, and to New Orleans by the steamboat navigation. 
There are in the county seventy-five grist mills, thirty saw 
mills, twenty-one fulling mills, twelve furnaces, four forges, 
several woollen manufactories, an extensive cotton manu- 
factory at Brownsville, and several glass works, in success- 
ful operation. The first paper made in the west, was in 
Fayette county. 

The subjoined account of Laurel Hill Cave, written by a 
traveller, we think, my dear pupils, you will be pleased 
with. 

" I was detained from proceeding on my journey, by the 
lameness of my horse, and having heard of a large cave in 
the neighbourhood, which had never been thoroughly ex- 
plored, my curiosity was raised, and I determined to pene- 
trate it fully; and having made my wish known, immedi- 
ately, several gentlemen in Union agreed to accompany me. 
We provided ourselves with refreshments, candles, a tinder 
box, matches, a lantern, a compass, chalk, and a line to 
measure with. We set out on September ll^b, 1816, as- 
cended Laurel Ridge Mountain, and left our horses at the 
farm of Mr. Delany, on the top, within half a mile of the 
cave, and requested him, if we did not come out early next 
morning, to have the country apprised of our situation, as 
we had heard that two young men were lost in the cave for 
nearly two days, having burnt out all their candles, and 
when found by the farmers, were lying in each other's arms, 
resigned, as they thought, to their premature and deplorable 
fate. After making all necessary preparations, we started 

* Hazard's Register. 



FAYETTE COUNTY. 223 

for the mouth of the cave; but before I enter into detail of 
our discoveries, I will point out its situation. 

" Laurel Hill Cave, which I have taken the liberty to 
name, it being in want of one, is situated in Pennsylvania, 
Fayette county, George township, on the top of Laurel 
Ridge Mountain. At four o'clock P. M. we commenced 
our operations. We first descended into a small pit, on 
the side of which, we found the mouth, about three feet by 
four, which we entered, and immediately found ourselves 
in a passage about twenty feet wide; and descending about 
fifty deorees, for forty feet, in a north west course, we found 
a less declivitj^ and smoother floor. Here we left our great 
coats and things we had no immediate use for, and proceed- 
ed, in the same course, a short distance, when we found, 
that the passage forked into two avenues, more contracted, 
both leaciing by a considerable descent, into the first room. 
This is aboHt twenty-four feet diameter, with a roof of rock 
•about twenty feel high. A large descending passage leads 
from this room, the same course, with a very high roof, and 
is about twelve feet wide for some distance, when it be- 
comes more contracted, and leads into the second rooni, 
which is fifty -one feet by one hundred, with a large body 
of rocks on the floor, that have fallen from the roof, which 
is not very hij;h. At the end of the passage is a running 
spring of excellent water. In this room, the person who 
had the tinder box unfortunately let it fall among the rocks, 
which opened it, and by this accident, we lost nearly all 
our tinder. A very narrow, uneven, and descending pas- 
sage leads from the second room, in a northeast direction, 
to the narrows, a passage two and a half feet high, and 
about fihy feet broad, leading horizontally between the rocks, 
with a small descent, for about one hundred and fifty feet, 
to a perpendicular descent over rocks. Through this small 
passage, we had, in many places, to drag ourselves along 
in a horizontal position, and the buttons of my coat were 
torn off" by the rocks above. This passage, evidently, was 
formed by the foundation of the nether rocks, being wash- 
ed by the veins of water beneath, which caused it to sepa- 
rate from the upper rock, and formed the route to the per- 
pendicular descent, wdiich we found to be twenty-two feet. 
I descended by a rope, but my companions found their way 
down by clinging to the rocks. We now found ourselves 
in a very uneven, rocky passage, which ascended about 



224 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

twenty degrees in the distance of two hundred and thirty 
four feet; but as we could not find an outlet after the most 
particular search, we returned, and descended the perpen- 
dicular precipice, and to the right of it discovered a pas- 
sage which had a great descent, was very rocky, uneven, 
and so contracted, for about eighty feet, that it was with 
great difficulty we made our way through it. This led to 
a second perpendicular descent, of thirty feet over rocks, 
which we, with great difficulty got down. We now found 
ourselves in a large avenue which I called Little Mill 
Stream Hall, with a very high roof, and about twenty-five 
feet wide. It had a sandy floor with a stream of water 
running through it, sufficiently large to turn a grist mill. 
On the sides of this stream were some large rocks, which 
had fallen from the roof. This avenue is about six hundred 
feet in length, with a considerable descent to where the wa- 
ter loses itself through a small aperture in the rocks. On 
returning from the bottom of the avenue, we discovered a 
passage, leading horizontally, and at right angles from the 
right side of this avenue, the entrance of which is elevated 
about eighty feet above the floor. We found this a very 
pleasant passage, in comparison with the rest; the roof, 
sides, and floor, were quite smooth; and we could walk up- 
right. It is one hundred and twenty feet long, and leads 
into the last, and largest avenue, or Great Mill Stream Hall. 
This we found to be very spacious, being about from twen- 
ty to thirty feet wide, and from thirty to eighty feet from 
the floor to the roof, and 1,200 feet in length, with a stream 
sufficient to turn a grist mill, running its whole length. 
From the source of the stream, where there is a considerable 
collection of white spar, formed by the constant dripping of 
the water, the avenue has a descent of about thirty degrees, 
to where the stream disembogues itself through a small 
aperture of the rocks. Before we arrived at this aperture, 
the avenue became so contracted, that Mr. Gregg and my- 
self had to creep on our hands and knees through the water 
for about fifty feet. Here, in the sand, we found the name 
of " Grain" written, which we considered a mortifying dis- 
covery, as we thought we were the first persons, who had 
penetrated so far in this direction. We wrote our names 
likewise in the sand, and then joined the rest of the party. 
In our search through this great avenue, we had to climb 
over, or creep under a thousand craggy rocks, that lay scat- 



FAYETTE COUNTY. 225 

tered on the floor, and which had fallen from the sides of 
the ceiling. I have every reason to believe, that no person 
except us, ever visited the source of the stream and head of 
the avenue, as vi^e found no sign of human invention, within 
many hundred feet of the spot, and which was very common 
in every other part of the cave, as the sides of every place, 
that had been previously visited, were covered with names 
and marks, made with coal; and if any person had pene- 
trated thus far, they would certainl}^ have left some token 
of their perseverance. We now found ourselves at the end 
of our exploring expedition, and as we had plenty of can- 
dles left, and had taken the precaution to mark with chalk, 
an arrow on the rocks at every turn, we were confident of 
being able to retrace our steps to the entrance. Returning, 
we measured with aline, the extreme distance we had been 
in, and found it to be 3,600 feet, but we must have travel- 
led altogether, upwards of two miles. Our return, we found 
much more tiresome, as it was an ascending route nearly 
the whole distance. We arrived in safety at the mouth at 
ten o'clock at night, after having travelled incessantly, for 
six hours. We were about 1,600 feet perpendicularly be- 
low the entrance. We heard the water running beneath 
the rocks in every part of the cave. The temperature, we 
found agreeable, but, owing to our great exertions, we were 
kept in a profuse perspiration the whole time we were in. 
In different parts we saw a few bats, but a gentl 'man of 
Union, who had gone into the cave during the winter sea- 
son, informed me, that the roofs of the first two rooms, were 
covered with millions of bats, hanging in large bunches, in 
a torpid state, and clinging to each other. This cave is 
composed of soft sand stone rock, and has every appearance 
of being formed by the veins of water, washing them and 
their foundations away, which caused them, by their weight 
to separate from the standing rocks above. There is not 
the smallest doubt, in my mind, but this cave is considera- 
bly enlarged by the action of the water, each year, for all 
the rocks on the floors of the different apartments, would 
exactly fit the parts of the ceiling immediately above them. 
The rocks that now form this cave, will certainly fall by 
degrees, as their foundations are washed away; therefore, 
it is impossible to form an idea of the very great spacious- 
ness to which it may arrive. The knowledge, that the 
rocks above are subject to fall, is calculated to excite the 

20* 



226 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

most inexpressible horror in the minds of the persons, who 
visit this subterraneous wonder. The arches of all the ave- 
nues, are formed by the rocks, meeting in the middle of the 
roofs, with a crack extending across the whole length."* 

Which way is Fayette county from Greene? How bounded? 

What river forms the western boundary? What river crosses the' 
county diagonally? What mountains do you find on the map? In 
what part of the county is Union? In what direction is Brownsville 
from Union? Perryopolis? Connellsville? etc. 

What is the face of the country? 

What minerals are found here? Soill 

Describe the Youghiogheny river. 

Wliich town is the seat of justice? How situated? 

What manufacturing establishments in Brownsville? 

How are Connellsville and New Haven situated? 

What articles are extensively manufactured here? 

What amount of paper is annually made here? 

Articles used in the manufacture of paper? 

With what mineral do the hills around Connellsville abound? Price 
of coal at this place? 

What distinguished character frequently visited this neighbourhood 
before the Revolutionary War? 

What was the lamentable fate of Colonel Crawford, a friend of 
Washington'? 

By what means has much coal been destroyed in this county? 

Prevailing religious denominations? 

Benevolent Societies? 

How is the county supplied with schools? 

To what places are large quantities of flour transported from this 
county? 

Some of the manufactories? 

How is Laurel Hill Cave situated? 

With what apparatus were the gentlemen provided, who explored 
this cave? 

For how long a time were two young men lost in this cave? 

What were some of the inconveniences, to which those were sub- 
jected, who explored this cave? 

Describe Mill Stream Hall. 

Dimensions of Great Mill Stream Hall? 

By what means did the gentlemen, who explored Laurel Hill Cave, 
find their way out? 

How much time was occupied in this exploring tour? 

How many feet below the entrance did the explorers descend? 

What was the temperature of the cave? 

With what animals are the first two rooms of the cave covered, in 
the winter? 

Of what kind of rock is this cave composed? 

* Hazard's Register.. 



WESTMORELAND COUNTY. 227 

Bj what means is the cave supposed to be enlarged? 
What circumstance is calculated to fill the minds of those who visit 
this cave with inexpressible horror? 

WESTMORELAND COUNTY. 

Like Western Pennsylvania in general, this county 
abounds in iron, bituminous coal, and salt. Salt works are 
very numerous; not less than 24 wells were said to be in 
operation, in 1832, and coal, of the best quality may be 
obtained from all the hills. 

Laurel Hill bounds the county on the east, and twelve 
miles farther west is Chestnut Ridge. From the summit of 
these mountains, the country spreads out like a vast plain 
of verdure, broken, however, into enormous hills, by the 
numerous water courses. 

The Conemaugh, and its continuation the Kiskiminitas, 
cross the whole of the northern boundary, and pour their 
waters into the Allegheny, which bounds it for the distance 
of twelve miles on the northwest. The Youghiogheny 
enters the county from the southwest, and leaves it, after a 
course of about fifteen miles. The State Canal follows the 
Conemaugh, parallel with the northern boundary. Three 
turnpikes cross the county; and at Robstown on the You- 
ghiogheny a bridge has been recently erected, which is four 
hundred and eighty-two feet in length, rests upon two large 
stone abutments, and two stone piers, and is said to be de- 
cidedly the handsomest, and from appearance, the most sub- 
stantial bridge in this country. 

Greensburg, the county town, has a central situation, 
thirty-one miles from Pittsburg. It contains one hundred 
and fifty dwellings, three churches, an academy, etc. It 
may well be called Greensburg, for in whatever direction 
we turn the eye it can hardly fail to rest on green fields and 
foliage. It is, however, not a pleasant village. An apparent 
want of neatness prevails, some of the houses are going to 
decay, and others actually tumbling down. 

Westmoreland was originally settled by Germans and 
Irish, and their descendants now occupy the soil. 

The most numerous religious denomination is Presby- 
terian. The whole number of churches is fifty, which are 



228 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

generally supplied with pastors, and are regularly opened 
for divine service. 

An academy is incorporated at Greensburg, and common 
schools are generally established throughout the county. 

The inhabitants are chiefly employed in agricultural pur- 
suits, the manufacture of salt is extensively carried on, and 
there are some iron works. In some of the townships, the 
finest wheat in the state, is produced. 

In what direction is Westmoreland from Allegheny'? How bounded? 
In what part of the county is Greensburg'? In what direction is 
Mount Pleasant from Greensburg? New Salem? etc. 

Describe the Kiskiminitas. Youghiogheny. 

Number of salt works in operation? 

What mountains in the eastern part of the county? 

Appearance of the country from the summit of these ridges? 

County town? How situated? Appearance of Greens jurg? 

By whom was this county originally settled? 

Religious denomination most prevalent? 

Number of churches? 

What schools are established? 

WASHINGTON COUNTY. 

Here we find coal, iron, and salt; but salt licks are not 
numerous, and there is no iron made in the county. Like 
Western Pennsylvania in general, Washington, M^hen view- 
ed from an elevation and from a distance, has the appear- 
ances of an extensive plain; but it is, in reality, deeply fur- 
rowed by numerous streams, and is eminently hilly. 

I think, my dear pupils, that on many accounts, you 
would be highly pleased with a visit to this county. The 
scenery is varied, interesting, and highly picturesque. I 
knew not how sufficiently to admire it, neither do I know 
how to describe it. With a few exceptions, I should say 
it is a perfect picture; and, in this opinion, I think most 
will concur, who have discernment to perceive beauty in 
beautiful objects. The admiring attention is continually 
attracted by fertile valleys, meandering streams, trees gently 
bending over the streams, large and beautiful hills, highly 
cultivated, and productive quite to their summits. 

The county is intersected, in various directions, by tri- 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 229 

butaries to the Ohio and Monongahela* The latter stream 
washes the eastern coast for 25 or 30 miles. 

The county is flourishing, and contains 22 towns and 
villages. The seat of justice is at Washington, situated 
about 26 miles southwest of Pittsburg. It is on an elevated 
spot, surrounded by hills and dales, and clustering groves. 
We hardly knew which to admire most, the invigorating 
morning scene, with the deep shaded foliage, or the beauties 
of the evening sky and retiring landscape. 

Washington is a fine town, contains about 2,000 inhabi- 
tants, a woollen factory, 7 churches, a Female Seminary, 
and a College. The houses are generally of brick and 
many of them three stories. The Presbyterian church is 
in a prosperous state, has 300 communicants, and a Sab- 
bath School is connected with this and with the Methodist 
church; both are in a flourishing condition. The annual 
collections, for benevolent objects in the Presbyterian church, 
average $500. 

The number of pupils in the Female Seminary is about 
50. The attention of the young ladies is principally di- 
rected to mental improvement, the design being to give 
them a substantial education, such as will thoroughly disci- 
pline and improve the mind. 

About 38 years ago, an insurrection took place in this 
county, called the Whiskey Insurrection, in consequence of 
a tax being laid on home distilled ardent spirits. Now a 
Temperance Society is formed in every township; the cause 
is progressing, and is in advance of any other county in the 
state. In Washington there is a Female Temperance Soci- 
ety consisting of 300 members, and the college students, 
with few exceptions, belong to similar associations. A 
plan, resembling that which was adopted for the promotion 
of temperance, is proposed for elevating the standard of fe- 
male education. It is to hold meetings in every town 
throughout the county, and to have addresses delivered, 
calculated to rouse the people to a realising sense of this im- 
portant object. 

In 1786, an academy was founded here, and in 1806, it 
was converted into a college, called Washington College. 
It however declined, and for a time, its operations were 
suspended. In 1831, it was resuscitated, and since that pe- 
riod its prosperity has continued to increase. The number 
of students is about 93. The president of the institution 



230 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

is Dr. M'Conaughty, besides, there are four professors, 
and two tutors. The College possesses a chemical and phi- 
losophical apparatus, maps, globes, an orrery, a library of 
about 400 volumes, and an increasing cabinet. The cabinet 
of curiosities natural, mineralogical, etc. etc. is owned, joint- 
ly, by the College and Lyceum. The Lyceum is composed of 
gentlemen residing in Washington and its vicinity. To its 
meetings students are admitted, and privileged to become 
members. Connected with the College are two Literary 
Societies, both of which have extensive libraries, instituted 
for the promotion of knowledge among the students ; a So- 
ciety for Inquiry on the subject of Missions, and an Evan- 
gelical Library, designed to promote information on the 
state of the world, relating particularly to the subject of 
missions. Ail the members of the College have access to this 
library. Nearly one-fourth of the students are hopefully 
pious, and fome few are known to have in view foreign 
missions. The College has a department of English liter- 
ature, designed for the education of teachers of common 
schools. All beneficiaries of evangelical societies have 
their tuition gratis. Many of line students are employed in 
the annual distribution of tracts through the county ; some 
in the Sabbath School, in the town, some in the neighbour- 
hood, and others conduct a Sabbath School for coloured 
children in the town. 

Among the curiosities in this College, is a beautiful spe- 
cimen of cloth, made by the natives of the Sandwich Is- 
lands. Some of it is white, some red, and some is various- 
ly coloured. It is not woven, as our cloth is, but made by 
pounding the bark of trees, and gluing a number of pieces 
together. Sometimes they have 50 yards in a piece. 
These long pieces are worn by princes, who, when they 
appear robed m state, wrap themselves round and round 
with it, till they think their dignity quite complete. 

The site of the Institution is on the eastern part of the 
borough, and has a very pleasant location. In addition to 
the original college buildings, which are of considerable 
extent, a large, handsome new edifice is now in an advanced 
state. In the new building, are two spacious and con- 
venient halls, appropriated to the two Literary Societies in 
the college, and wuth each of these halls is a smaller room, 
for the libraries of the societies, respectively. 

Washington is certainly a very interesting place, Whe- 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 231 

ther we regard it in a natural, moral, or intellectual point of 
view it is elevated. It is indeed as a city set upon a hill, 
that give th light to all the surrounding region. 

Canonsburg is another interesting part of this beautiful 
picture. The village consists of about 700 inhabitants, 
including the college students. AVe stopped at a hotel di- 
rectly opposite the Jefferson College, which is in this 
place. Just as the evening shades began to prevail, the 
college bell rang, and the youth assembled in the hall for 
prayers. It was truly delightful to hear the song of praise 
from so many lips, as a part of their evening devotions. 
O, that the hearts of all these young men might be pre- 
pared to attune the praise of him, whose praise is on their 
tongues ! 

Jefferson College was founded in 1802. The state has 
granted to the Institution the sum of $8,000, but it is chief-, 
ly indebted to private munificence, and the exertions of 
its friends for its prosperity. The funds, arising from tui- 
tion are the principal means of supporting its professors. 
Four thousand five hundred dollars have been given by in* 
dividuals, to aid in educating indigent, pious young men 
for the gospel ministry, and numbers have already experi- 
enced the benefit of this liberality. The College possesses 
a philosophical and chemical apparatus, a library, contain- 
ing 1,000 volumes, and two societies, attached to the Col- 
lege, have each a library of 1,500 volumes. Besides, there 
is a cabinet of natural science, in which are deposited, not 
only various objects of natural history, but also many of 
the numerous Indian antiquities, in which the western states 
abound. 

Connected with the College is a preparatory school, in 
which teachers are educated for the instruction of common 
schools. 

The societies connected with the College, are a Frank- 
lin Society, Philo Society, and Brainard Society. Intel- 
lectual improvement is the object of the two first ; the 
investigation of missionary operations, that of the last. 
The rooms, belonging to the Literary Societies, are spa- 
cious and very beautiful, furnished with much neatness and 
taste. 

This College is under the superintendence of the Rev. 
Dr. Brown. It has four professors, two tutors, and the 
number of students, including those engaged in preparatory 



232 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

Studies, is 238. About half are hopefully pious. The col- 
lege buildings are handsome, consisting of two three-story 
edifices, and a house for the president. 

The students in this College are not only trained in the 
walks of literature, but in the school of usefulness. They 
engage in the distribution of tracts, and in the business of 
Sabbath Schools. Two schools are under their superin- 
tendence, and many of them are employed as teachers. 
One of these schools is in the College hall at Canonsburg, 
and is large, flourishing, and well regulated. Not only 
students are engaged as teachers, but ladies, of the first 
respectability, leave their families, and assemble here to 
share in the privilege of doing good. One practice in this 
school, we were particularly pleased with, namely, that of 
giving out questions respecting the great benevolent ope- 
rations of the day. One subject was taken up for four or 
five Sabbaths in succession, and about half a dozen ques- 
tions given out each Sabbath. These questions, the teach- 
ers and scholars were expected to study ; the following Sab- 
bath each class was examined by its teacher, and at the 
close of the school, all the classes v/ere examined by the 
superintendent, and additional information given. The 
medical department of this college is at Philadelphia. 

Florence is an interesting little place, highly favoured in 
a literary and religious point of view. Here is a flourish- 
ing classical academy, a Female Seminary, and a fine church 
with 300 communicants, under the pastoral care of the Rev. 
Mr. Macurdy, an eminent father in the church, who has 
been an instrument of much good. The time of his de- 
parture seems now drawing near. He has fought the good 
fight, has almost finished his course, and seems ready to 
render up his account. 

Our visit to Canonsburg and Florence was rendered dou- 
bly interesting on account of the kindness we there received 
and which is always so cheering to the heart of a stran- 
ger. It was indeed grateful to our feelings to find a 
resting place in the pious and intelligent family of Pro- 
fessor K. 

Western Pennsylvania is a most interesting portion of 
the state. There is more intelligence, more piety, more 
good preaching, and a much better state of morals than we 
had anticipated. The Presbyterian mode of worship pre- 
vails generally ; extensive revivals have spread throughout 



WASHINGTON COUNTY. 233 

this region, particularly in Washington county. Thiey are 
a church going people ; not one family in 50 absent them- 
selves from the house of God. In Washington county are 
Missionary Societies, Tract Societies, Sunday School As- 
sociations, and a County Bible Society has been formed. 
Much attention has been given to the means of education. 
The two colleges have been mentioned ; there are a number 
of private academies ; and schools, in which the rudiments 
of education are taught, are numerous. 

This county was settled by emigrants from the north of 
Ireland, from Germany, and from New Jersey, and their 
descendants now occupy the soil. 

Agriculture forms the chief occupation of the inhabitants. 
There are three or four small woollen manufactories, and 
at Williamsport, on the Monongahela river, is an establish- 
ment, where window glass is extensively made. The in- 
habitants have recently devoted much attention to the raising 
of horses, and sheep, in which ihey have been eminently suc- 
cessful. Sheep have increased very rapidly and now occu- 
py one-fourth of the cultivated lands in the county, and 
produce annually 600,000 pounds of wool. It is no un- 
common occurrence for a farmer to have two or three 
hundred sheep. A gentleman in Washington owns 1300. 

The western parts of Pennsylvania, and the adjoining 
parts of Ohio, and Virginia, are peculiarly adapted to the 
growth of wool, and in this respect Washington county is 
not surpassed by any part of ihe world. Much of the wool, 
from flocks which have been well managed, will bear com- 
parison with the best Saxon wool. 

In what direction is Washington county from Allegheny ? 

How bounded ? Wliat river washes the eastern boundary ? 

In what part of the county is Washington ? Which way is Canons- 
btirg from Washington ? Mount Pleasant ? Martinsburg ? etc. 

What is the appearance of the county when viewed at a distance, 
and on an eminence ? 

What is the face of the country in reality ? 

What is the scenery ? 

How many towns and villages does this county contain ? 

Which town is the seat of justice ? 

How is Washington situated ? 

What Hterary institutions in Washington ? 

Average amount, annually collected in the Presbyterian church at 
Washington, for benevolent purposes ? 

21 



234 GEOGRAPHY OF FENNSYLVANIA. 

What is the design of the system of education, pursued at the Fe- 
male Seminary in Washington ? 

What insurrection took place in this county about 38 years ago ? " 

What societies are now formed throughout the county ? 

What plan is proposed for' elevating the standard of female educa- • 
tion ? 

What college is located at Washington ? 

President of Washington College ? Number of teachers ? Number 
of students ? 

What three societies are connected with the college ? 

What libraries does the Institution possess? 

In what benevolent object are some of the students of Washington 
College engaged ? 

Proportion of the students hopefully pious in Washington College 7 ' 

Design of the department of English education? 

Describe the college buildings. The site. 

In what respect is Washington interesting? 

What place is another interesting part of this beautiful picture ? 

What college is located at Canonsburg ? AVhen founded ? 

By what means are the Professors of this college supported? 

What sum has been given to the Institution by individuals? For 
what purpose ? 

What libraries does this College possess? 

What articles are deposited in the cabinet of natural science? 

What school is connected with this College? 

What teachers are educated in the English department? 

What societies are connected with this College? 

Objects of these Societies ? 

Who is President of this Institution ? Number of instructors ? 

In what benevolent object do the students engage ? 

What account can you give of the Sabbath School at Canonsburg ? 

What useful practice in this school ? 

What do you recollect about Florence ? 

What is stated in favour of Western Pennsylvania ? 

In favour of Washington county ? 

Prevailing religion ? Benevolent Societies ? - 

What schools have been established ? 

By what emigrants has this county been settled ? 

Chief occupation of the inhabitants ? 

What manufactories can you mention ? 

To what business have the inhabitants of this county, recently, de- 
voted much attention ? With what success ? 

What proportion of the cultivated lands is occupied by sheep ? 

What countries are here mentioned, as being well adapted to the 
growth of wool ? 

ALLEGHENY COUNTY. 

We will now visit Allegheny county, and that great depot j 
of Western Pennsylvania, the city of Pittsburg. 



ALLEGHENY COUNTY. 235 

This is a rolling country, consisting mostly of arable 
hills and alternate valleys. Near the rivers, the hills are 
too steep to admit of cultivation, but have a rich soil, and 
are deeply enveloped with dense and luxuriant forest. 
Many of them are well adapted to the culture of the vine. 
These hills greatly adorn the landscape, and conduce much 
to the grandeur, and picturesque beauty of the scenery. 

The trees which abound in the valleys and on the mar- 
rgins of the streams, are ash, sugar maple, cherry, elm, etc. 
On the larger streams is found the sycamore, and in the 
more elevated parts, different species of oak predominate. 
Fruit trees are abundant, and numerous species of grapes 
grow spontaneously. 

The county is abundantly watered by the Monongahela, 
Allegheny^ Ohio, and several' of their tributaries. The 
State Canal extends along the banks of the Allegheny for 
about 30 miles in this county, and communicates with the 
Monongahela by an aqueduct across the river, and by a 
tunnel through Grant's Hill. 

A valuable mineral spring has been discovered west of 
the Monongahela, four miles from Pittsburg, and six miles 
from the same place, is a bed of marble of the species call- 
ed the bird s eye. It receives a handsome polish, and is a 
beautiful material for ornamental purposes. 

Several turnpikes pass in different directions, through the 
county, and at Pittsburg there are two very fine bridges, 
one over the Allegheny, and the other over the Mononga- 
hela. The Allegheny bridge is 1122 feet long, 38 feet wide, 
and consists of six arches, resting on stone piers, and co- 
vered with a roof. This connects the city with Allegheny 
town. That over the Monongahela, is 1500 feet long, 37 
feet wide, an^d has eight arches, resting on stone piers and 
is protected in a similar manner. This connects the city 
with Birmingham. 

Clergymen here are generally well supported, and the 
inhabitants are a church going people. Two-thirds are 
Presbyterians, and the other denominations most prevalent 
are Methodist and Baptist. The inhabitants are mostly the 
descendants of Irish and Germans. 

The exports of the county consist of agricultural articles, 
and the almost countless manufactures of Pittsburg. 

Here is a County Temperance Society, and several aux- 
ilhry associations have been formed, whose exertions have 



236 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

conduced, greatly, to suspend the operations of distilleries, 
and promote the cause of temperance. 

PITTSBURG. 




Pittsburg, which is a city, and the seat of justice for the 
county, is situated at the confluence of the Allegheny, and 
Monongahela, and is of very limited extent. At the junc- 
tion of the rivers, is a small triangular alluvial flat, on which 
the city is located, and at the distance of only half a mile 
from the point rises Grant's Hill, in Memory of Major 
Grant, who was here defeated, during the French and In- 
dian war. 

Pittsburg is justly styled the Birmingham of the United 
States, by reason of its numerous manufactories, which are 
chiefly driven by steam engines, that send forth immense 
volumes of smoke. Coal is the sole fuel. 

In the history of our country, many interesting facts are 
connected with Pittsburg. In 1754, the French erected a 
fort here, which they called Du Quesne; in 1758, it was 
taken by the English, and called Fort Pitt, in compliment 
to that celebrated statesman. The fort stood just at the 
point where the two rivers meet; but is now entirely de- 
stroyed, and the ground is converted into a lumber yard. 
Near the place, is a small triangular house occupied by the 
oflficers of the fort, during the Revolutionary War. 



ALLEGHENY COUNTY. 237 

*•* This place was repeatedly visited by Washington; and 
it may be a matter of proud recollection to the inhabitants 
of Pittsburg, that the lirst accurate description of this point 
was given by the pen of the father of their country, and that 
the neighbourhood of Pittsburg was the field of his first 
fame." The place was then called '* the Forks," 

" There was a singular variety and contrast in th€ aspect 
of circumstances, under which Washington, at difl^erent pe- 
riods, visited this place, and its vicinity. On the 22d of 
November, 1753, he arrived here as the mere messenger 
of a single Colonial Governor^ and spent some time in ex- 
amining the situation of the point. All then was peace and 
solitude here — nothing disturbed his meditations but the 
music of the feathered inhabitants of the forest. On the 9th 
of July, 1755, he again approached this place, with all the 
'pomp and circumstance of war,' w?2fZer Braddock, and 
was met with the sharp report of the rifle, and fierce yell of 
the savages, and compelled to retreat in haste and disorder, 
with a discomfitted army, and dying commander. 
t- " Again on the 25th of November, 1758, under the com- 
mand of General Forbes, he approached this point in glori- 
0US triumph, and took possession of Fort Du Quesne, which 
had just been abandoned by the flying Frenchmen. 

"And yet again, in October, 1794, as com,mander in chief 
of the army and navy of the United States, he advanced 
towards this place against the refractory and turbulent citi- 
zens of these western counties, and had then the glorious 
g-ood fortune to reduce th€ misguided insurgents to obedi- 
ence, and restore peace and good order without the loss of 
a single life or a drop of blood,"* 

This city was founded in 1765, but for a long period the 
increase was very inconsiderable, and it was a scene of 
great dormant capacities, for some years after the Revolu- 
tionary War. Produce was very low. Indian corn was 
seven cents per bushel, and other things in proportion. It 
was suggeste.l, that manufactories were necessary for the 
prosperity of Western Pennsylvania. The plan was ap- 
proved and carried into operation, and Pittsburg, instead of 
pining away m sickly infancy, has grown up into the great 
western emporium of the manufactures of the United States. 
The commercial advantages are very great. By means oi 

* Hazard's Register. 
21* 



238 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

its rivers, railroads and canals it carries on an extensive 
trade with almost every part of the Union. 

" Pittsburg is a port of entry, and shipping has been 
carried on with spirit, even at the source of the Ohio. A 
curious incident, connected with this subject, was mention- 
ed by Mr. Clay on the floor of Congress. To illustrate 
the commercial habits of the American people, he said he' 
would relate an anecdote of a vessel, built and cleared out 
at Pittsburg for Leghorn. When she arrived at her place 
of destination, the master presented his papers to the pro- 
per officer, who would not credit them; but said to him, 
"Sir, your papers are forged. There is no such place as 
Pittsburg in the world. Your vessel must be confiscated." 
The trembling Captain laid before the officer the map of 
the United States, directed him to the Gulf of Mexico, 
pointed out to him the mouth of the Mississippi, led him a 
thousand miles np to the mouth of the Ohio, and thence an- 
other thousand up to Pittsburg. ' There, sir, is the port 
where my vessel cleared out!' The astonished officer, 
before he had seen the map, would as readily have believed, 
that this vessel had been navigated from the moon." 

It will be recollected that steamboats are very numerous 
at Pittsburg. The Steam Boat Mediterranean, built here, 
and completed about four years ago, a most substantial and 
splendid vessel, is the largest boat of the kind in the United 
States or in the world. The length of her deck is 193 feet; 
entire breadth 60 feet. 

The ladies' cabin has connected with it 12 state rooms, 
each containing two berths, and the gentlemen's cabin 50 
state rooms, containing in all 100 berths. These two ca- 
bins are separated by folding doors, which when thrown 
open, exhibit to view one spacious and splendid apartment 
124 feet in length, in the decoration of which is combined 
all the taste, the elegance, and the skill of Pittsburg. 

Sometimes twenty-five steamboats are seen lying at the 
wharf here, each capable of containing four or five hundred 
passengers. 

The suburbs of Pittsburg are Birmingham, Manchester, 
the Northern Liberties, and Bayardstown. The entire 
population is 30,000. The borough of Allegheny town, a 
thriving town, is connected with Pittsburg by a covered 
bridge over the Allegheny river, as already said. 

When journeying to the west, having arrived within about 



ALLEGHENY COUNTY. 239 

seven miles of this city, we perceived a smoky atmosphere 
and an unpleasant smell. One of the passengers exclaimed 
" We smell Pittsburg," and really we think he was not mis- 
taken, for on our arrival, we perceived the same unpleasant 
sensation, only in a greater degree. This is produced by 
the vast quantities of tar and coal burnt at the manufacto- 
ries. The atmosphere is constantly filled with volumes of 
smoke, which are sometimes mistaken for clouds, that pre- 
sage a storm, when we are led to think, that the heavens, 
gathering blackness, are ready to burst upon us in torrents 
of rain, and peals of thunder. 

This smoky atmosphere is so trying and sickening to the 
stranger, that frequently, for a number of days, he becomes 
quite prostrate, and in disgust, soon leaves the place, think- 
ing he will return no more. But reflecting on the peculiar 
advantages of Pittsburg, he is induced to go back, soon 
becomes accustomed to the smoke, and lives here in great 
comfort. 

" We may consider this city a vast assemblage of manu- 
facturing establishments, which day and night roll up vast 
quantities of smoke, darkening the very heavens, and dis- 
colouring every object. Some portions of the city are ren- 
dered quite black. Here are many and extensive forges, 
rolling and slitting mills, and foundries; here are cast 
ploughs, mill machinery, stoves, cannons and cannon balls; 
here are constructed a vast number of steamboats with 
their engines; here are six or eight extensive glass manu- 
factories, whose products have been admired in every part 
of the Union; here are many and extensive cotton and 
woollen manufactories, paper mills, saw and grist mills, dis- 
tilleries, etc. etc. Between five and 6000 wagons arrive 
here annually from the east, loaded with merchandize for 
the west, whilst the quantity of flour, whiskey, lumber, 
salt, etc. etc. which is brought by the road, the river and 
the canal, for exportation by the Ohio,. is immense. It is 
calculated that 30,000,000 feet of plank descend the Alle- 
gheny alone, from the pine forests on the sources of that 
river. The products of the manufactories of Pittsburg cer- 
tainly much exceed the value of $2,000,000." 

Dr. Matheson, who visited the principal manufactories of 
Pittsburg says, " One of the principal glass manufacturers 
mentioned an amusing incident. Some Indians had been as 
a delegation to Washington, about some reserved lands; and 



240 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

they spent a few days here on their return. One of them, 
a chief, had seen all that was curious in Baltimore and, 
Philadelphia without being much excited. While here, he, 
visited the glasshouse, and watched all the various opera- 
tions, with great interest. At length, he saw the process 
of making some cream jugs. The body of the jug was 
formed first, and when the material for the handle was 
formed and fixed, it was founed to be a perfect vessel. 
Seeing all this produced from molten glass, the chief could 
restrain himself no longer. He rushed forward to the work- 
man, took him by the hand, and declared he must have the 
Spirit of the Great Father within him, or he could not 
have performed such a wonder. 

The public buildings are a courthouse and county offices, 
the Western University, the United States Arsenal, the 
Theological Seminary, the Western Penitentiary, etc. The 
University has four professors, about 50 students, and is 
under the superintendence of Gilbert Morgan, A. M. 

As we approach Pittsburg from the east, one of the most 
prominent and interesting objects, that meets the eye, is the 
Western Theological Seminary of the Presbyterian Church. 
It was founded in 1828, and is on a delightful eminence, in 
Alleghenytown, east of Allegheny river. The edifice con- 
sists of a centre building with four stories, and wings with 
three. It has three professors, about 41 students, and a 
library of 4000 volumes. About half of this library was a 
donation from Mr. Alexander Henry of Philadelphia, for- 
merly the private library of his son, the late Thomas 
Charleton Henry, D. D. of Charleston, South Carolina. 
The Institution struggles hard for want of funds. 

From an elevation near the Seminary, there is a pictu- 
resque and very charming view. We see the three beauti- 
ful rivers Allegheny, Monongahela, and Ohio, Pittsburg, 
the adjoining villages, and the distant towering hills, crown- 
ed )vith forest trees, and decked with most luxuriant foliage. 
It is said, that at night, when the stars are shining, when 
the lamps, illuminate the city and village, the appearance is 
very peculiar, resembling a vast star spangled concave. 
The Associated Reformed Church has a Theological Semi- 
nary in Pittsburg, established in 1828. It has one profes- 
sor and 19 students. 

Pittsburg has thirty churches and publishes fifteen or 
twenty periodicals, and is well supplied with schools. Bible 



ALLEGHENY COUNTY. 241 

Societies, Missionary Societies, Tract Societies, and Tem- 
perance Societies are numerous. 

The city is supplied with water by artificial means. It 
is raised into a large reservoir, and then conducted through 
the city by means of iron pipes. 

Probably no city in the Union, and perhaps none in the 
world is so abundantly supplied with fuel, as is the city of 
Pittsburg. Those high elevations, with which the place 
is surrounded, are literally solid mountains of coal. Wood 
is also very plentiful; so that from above, and beneath the 
soil, the resources for fuel seem inexhaustible. 

Dreadful accidents sometimes occur in these coal mines. 
The following is an account of one of them. 

" A coal mine, owned by Mr. Doran, on the hill oppo- 
site the city, took fire, and in order to allay it, it was stop- 
ped closely at the mouth. Since days after, however, it 
was opened, and Mr. Doran, with two colliers, entered the 
pit with lights in their hands. They had not proceeded far 
before their lights simultaneously went out, and an oppres- 
siveness, at the same time, seized them all. Mr. Doran, 
being nearest the mouth of the pit, with difficulty, was en- 
abled to return. The other tv/o sank in the pit, overcome 
by the smothering and poisonous mfluence of the foul air, 
which had accumulated while the pit was closed. Mr. 
M'Cord, a wagoner, entered to rescue the sufferers, if pos- 
sible, as soon as Mr. Doran gave intelligence of their situa- 
tion, but on reaching them, he too was seized whh the 
same oppressiveness, and endeavoured to retreat, bringing 
one of them with him. In spite of all his efforts, he sank 
down with his burden, near the mouth of the pit, and was 
only saved himself by the exertions of some persons, who 
hastily pulled him out. The two men, who entered with 
Mr. Doran, when taken out were dead. Mr. M'Cord and 
Mr. Doran barely escaped with their lives."* 

Some of you, my dear pupils, have seen tornadoes, oth- 
ers have heard of them. 'J'he following account, taken 
from the Register of Pennsylvania, dated Pittsburg, June 
1833, will enable you all to form some just, conception of 
them. 

The writer says, "I witnessed, this afternoon, a terrible 
display of the fury of the enraged elements. It was an ex- 

* Hazard's Register, 



242 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

hibition, such as I never before saw, and such an one, as I 
pray Heaven, I may never stand exposed to again. I will 
mention particulars. 

" A party of gentlemen filling three gigs, left this place 
this morning, on a visit to Braddock's Field, the scene of 
the dreadful slaughter of the English army by the Indians, 
in 1755. The spot is about nine miles from the city, on 
the banks of the Monongahela, and we reached it about noon. 
We spent about two hours, walking over the field of battle. 
Agendeman, who resides in the neighbourhood, very kindly 
pointed out to us the ambuscade, in which the Indians were 
hidden, the spot where Braddock fell fatally wounded, the 
retreat of the army, under the direction of Washington, 
who, on that day, most gloriously signalized himself as an 
efficient officer; and, indeed, every other prominent part of 
the ground. We trod over these fields, now under cultiva- 
tion, and flourishing with vegetation, and recalled to mind 
the events of that day. Tlie furrows of the plough had turn- 
ed up the bones of warriors, who had fallen dead on the 
field of glory. Remains of bones are still visible. In our 
rambles, we picked up several pieces of these bones, an ar- 
row barb, flints, musket balls, etc., which I have carefully 
preserved. On our return, the occurrence took place, to 
which I have alluded above. 

" We had arrived within about two miles of the city, 
when we saw, in the west, symptoms of a coming storm. 
They were trilling, and we felt confident we could reach 
the city before the rain began. In this expectation we 
were disappointed ; and before we had proceeded three hun- 
dred yards, a thick, black cloud suddenly enveloped us, 
rendering the atmosphere very dark. In an instant, a large 
tree in our sight tumbled down with a tremendous crash, 
sending the limbs and fragments in every direction. It com- 
menced hailing and blowing awfully. We saw ourselves 
in a tornado, and hastily jumped out of the gig. While 
endeavouring to keep up our horse, which was nearly thrown 
down by the wind, I lost my hat. I ran after it, but was 
blown violently against the fence on the opposite side of 
the road. Recovering myself, I again ran ; but never shall 
I forget the sensations which passed through me. Tree 
after tree went down with a prodigious crash, literally filling 
the air with splinters and fragments — the wind rushed and 
roared with a horrid noise— the air was black with dust and 



ALLEGHENY COUNTY. 243 

the pelting of the hail ; and the force of the wind ren- 
dered it impossible for me to keep my feet. On reaching 
my hat, I stumbled upon an elderly lady, who, with three 
children, one at the breast, had alighted from the wagon, 
the horses attached to which, in their fright, had become 
unmanageable. A gentleman, attached to our party, seized 
one of the children, I another, and with the mother between 
us, we endeavored to make our way to a neighbouring barn. 
This we reached, but we had no sooner entered the door, 
than a large part of the roof was blown entirely off, leaving 
us exposed to the most imminent danger. 

" This place we left instantly, and after immense labour? 
we made our way to an adjoining house, where we were 
gratified in depositing the children in safety. The lady was 
in great distress for her infant, it being her firm belief, 
while exposed to the storm, that it had perished in her arms. 
When she found all safe she sank down in a state of utter 
exhaustion. 

" The storm was not yet over, though its fury was main- 
ly spent. While in this place of safety, we witnessed 
more of its devastating effects. A new house, within a 
hundred yards of our retreat, was blown down, an entire 
orchard was prostrated, and trees, fences, and out buildings, 
razed to the ground, as if by magic. The scene was most 
dreadful. 

" Our party escaped with whole skins, but with little 
else. One of our gigs was whirled about in the air for some 
time, but was only triflingly injured. Our apparel was com- 
pletely spoiled. 

" In the city, the tornado was less terrible, but the storm 
of rain and hail was severe. Great numbers of trees, 
awnings, light buildings, etc. were prostrated, but I have not 
learned that any lives were lost. 

" I had made arrangements for leaving the place to-mor- 
row, but passing through this scene, has unfitted me for a 
tour at this time. I shall, therefore, remain a day or two 
longer, to refit both in health and apparel. 

We will close what we have to say in connection with 
Pittsburg, by the following extract. 

A REVOLUTIONARY ADVENTURE. 

"In the spring of the year 1755, James Smith, then a 
youth of eighteen, accompanied a party of three hundred 



244 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

men from the frontiers of Pennsylvania, who advanced in 
front of Braddock's army, for the purpose of opening a 
road over the mountains. When within a few miles of 
Bedford Springs, he was sent back to the rear, to hasten the 
progress of some wagons, loaded with provisions and stores 
for the use of the road cutters. Having delivered his or- 
ders, he was returning, in company with another young 
man, when they were suddenly fired upon by a party of. 
three Indians, from a cedar thicket which skirted the road. 
Smith's companion was killed on the spot, and although he 
himself was unhurt, yet his horse was so much frightened 
by the flash and report of the guns, as to become totally 
unmanageable, and after a few plunges, threw him violently 
upon the ground. Before he could recover his feet, the In- 
dians sprung upon him, and overpowermg his resistance, 
secured him as a prisoner. One of them demanded, in bro- 
ken English, whether 'more white men were coming up ;' 
and upon his answering in the negative, he was seized by 
each arm, and compelled to run, with great rapidity, over 
the mountains till night, when the small party encamped 
and took their supper. An equal share of their scanty 
stock of provisions was given to the prisoner, and in other 
respects, he was treated with great kindness. On the even- 
ing of the next day, after a rapid walk of fifty miles, through 
cedar thickets, and over very rocky ground, they reached 
the western side of the Laurel Mountain, and beheld, at a 
little distance, the smoke of an Indian encampment. His 
captors now fired their guns, and raised the scalp halloo ! 
This is a long yell for every scalp that has been taken, fol- 
io wed. by a rapid succession of shrill, quick, piercing, 
shrieks ; shrieks somewhat resembling laughter in the most 
excited tones. They were answered from the Indian camp 
below by a discharge of rifles, and a long whoop, followed 
by shrill cries of joy, and all thronged out to meet the party. 
Smith expected instant death at their hands, as they crowded 
around him ; but to his surprise, no one offered him any 
violence. They belonged to another tribe, and entertained 
the party in their camp with great hospitality, respecting 
the prisoner as the property of their guests. On the follow- 
ing morning. Smith's captors continued their march, and on 
the evening of the next day, arrived at Fort Du Quesne — 
now Pittsburg. When within half a mile of the fort, they 
again raised the scalp halloo, and again fired their guns as 



ALLEGHENY COUNTY. 245 

before. Instantly, the whole garrison was in commotion. 
The cannons were fired — the drums were beaten, and 
French and Indians ran out in great numbers to meet the 
party, and partake of the triumph. Smith was again sur- 
rounded by a multitude of savages, painted in various colors 
and shouting with delight ; but their demeanor was, by no 
means, so pacific, as that of the last party he had encoun- 
tered. They rapidly formed in two lines, and brandishing 
their hatchets, ramrods, switches, etc., called aloud upon 
him to run the gauntlet. Never having heard of this In- 
dian ceremony before, he stood amazed for some time, not 
knowing what to do ; but one of his captors explained to 
him, that he was to run between two lines, and receive a 
blow from each Indian as he passed ; concludii g his expla- 
nation by exhorting him, to "run his best," as the faster he 
run, the sooner the affair would be over. This truth was 
very plain, and young Smith entered upon his race with 
great spirit. He was switched very handsomely along the 
lines, for about three fourths of the distance, the stripes only 
acting as a spur to greater exertions, and he had almost 
reached the extremity of the lines, when a tall chief struck 
him a furious blow with a club upon the back of the head, 
and instantly threw him to the ground. Recovering him- 
self in a moment, he sprung upon his feet, and started for- 
ward again, when a handful of sand was thrown in his eyes, 
which, in addition to the great pain, completely blinded 
him. He still attempted to grope his way through, but 
was again knocked down, and beaten with merciless severi- 
ty. He soon became insensible under such barbarous treat- 
ment, and recollected nothing more, until he found himself 
at the hospital at the fort under the hands of a French sur- 
geon, beaten to jelly, and unable to move a limb. Here, 
he was quickly visited by one of the captors, the same who 
had given him such good advice, when about to commence 
his race. He now inquired with some interest, if he felt 
very sore. Young Smith replied, that he had been bruised 
almost to death, and asked what he had done to merit such 
barbarity. The Indian replied, that he had done nothing, 
but that it was the customary greeting of the Indians to 
their prisoners; that it was something like the English, 
* how d'ye do?' and that now all ceremony would be laid 
aside, and he would be treated with kindness. Smith in- 
quired if they had any news of General Braddock. The 
22 



246 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

Indian replied, that their scouts saw him every day from 
the mountains; that he was advancing in close columns 
through the woods; (this he indicated by placing a number 
of red sticks, parallel to each, and pressed closely together) 
and that the Indians would be able to shoot them down 'like 
pigeons.' 

" Smith rapidly recovered, and was soon able to walk 
upon the battlements of the fort, with the aid of a stick. 
While engaged in this exercise, on the morning of the 

9tb , he observed an unusual bustle in the fort. The 

Indians stood in crowds at the great gate, armed and painted. 
Many barrels of powder, balls, flints, etc. were brought out 
to them, from which each warrior helped himself to such 
articles as he required^ They were soon joined by a small 
detachment of French regulars when the whole party marched 
off together. He had a full view of them, as they passed, and 
was confident they could not exceed four hundred men. 
He soon learned, that it was detached against Braddock, 
who was now within a few miles of the fort; but from 
their great inferiority in numbers, he regarded their destruc- 
tion as certain, and looked joyfully to the arrival of Brad- 
dock in the evening, as the hour which was to deliver him 
from the power of the Indians. In the afternoon, however, 
an Indian runner arrived with far different intelligence. The 
battle had not yet ended, when he left the field; but he an- 
nounced, that the English had been surrounded, and were 
shot down in heaps by an invisible enemy; that instead of 
flying at once, or rushing upon their concealed foe, they 
appeared completely bewildered, huddled together in the - 
centre of the ring, and before sun down there would not be 
a man of them alive. This intelligence feiilike a thunder- 
bolt upon Smith, who now saw himself irretrievably in the 
power of the savages, and could look forward to nothing ^ 
but torture or endless captivity. He waited anxiously for 1 
further intelligence, still hoping that the fortune of the day -^ 
might change. But about sunset, he heard, at a distance, 
the well known scalp halloo, followed by v»^ild, quick, joy- 
ful shrieks, and accompanied by long continued firing. 
This too seriously announced the fate of the day. About j 
dusk, the party returned to the fort, driving before them | 
twelve British regulars, stripped naked, and with their faces * 
painted black! an evidence that the unhappy wretches were 
devoted to death. Next came the Indians, displaying their 



I 



ALLEGHENY COUNTY* 247 

bloody Scalps of which they had immense numbers, dressed 
in the scarlet coats, sashes, and military hats of the officers 
and soldiers. Behind all came a train of baggage horses, 
laden with piles of scalps, canteens, and all the accoutre- 
ments of British soldiers. The savages appeared frantic 
with joy, and when Smith beheld them entering the fort, 
dancing, yelling, brandishing their red tomahawks, and 
waving their scalps in the air, while the great guns in the 
fort replied to the incessant discharge of the rifles without, 
he says, that it looked as though h-U liad given a holiday, 
and was turning loose its inhabitants upon the upper world. 
The most melancholy spectacle was the band of prisoners. 
They appeared dejected and anxious. Poor fellows! They 
had, but a few months before, left London, at the command 
of their superiors, and we may easily imagine their feelings, 
and the strange and dreadful spectacle around them. The 
yells of delight and congratulation were scarcely over, when 
those of vengeance began. The devoted prisoners (British 
regulars) were led out of the fort to the banks of the Allegheny, 
and to the eternal disgrace of the French commander, were 
there burned to death, with the most awful tortures. Smith 
stood upon the battlements, and witnessed the shocking 
spectacle. The prisoner was tied to the stake, with his 
hands raised above his head, stripped naked and surrounded 
by Indians. They would touch him with red hot irons, 
and stick his body full of fine splinters, and set them on 
fire, drowning the shrieks of the victim in the yells of de- 
light, with which they danced around him. His com- 
panions, in the mean time, stood in groups near the stake, 
and had a foretaste of what was reserved for each of them. 
As fast as one prisoner died under his tortures, another 
filled his place, until the whole perished. All this took 
place so near the fort, that every scream of the victims must 
have rung in the ears of the French commander. 

" Two or three days, after this shocking spectacle, most 
of the Indian tribes dispersed, and returned to their homes, 
as is usual with them after a great and decisive battle. 
Young Smith was demanded of the French, by the tribe to 
whom he belonged, and was immediately surrendered into 
their hands."* 

* Hazard's Register, 



248 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

In what direction is Allegheny from Erie ? How bounded ? Prin- 
cipal rivers in Allegheny county ? Describe the Allegheny ? Mon- 
ohgahela. Youghiogheny. How is Pittsburg situated? In what 
direction is Pittsburg from Perrysville ? Noblesboro? etc. 

What city is the great depot of western Pa.? 

What is the surface and soil of Allegheny county ? 

Mention some of the forest and fruit trees. 

What canal in this county ? 

How does the canal communicate with the Monongahela river ?' 

What interesting discoveries have been made near Pittsburg ? 

What number of bridges at Pittsburg ? 

Most numerous religious denominations ? 

By what people is this county inhabited ? 

What benevolent Societies can you mention 1 Exports ? 

Which town is the seat of justice ? 

What hill rises immediately back of Pittsburg? After whom 
named ? 

In what year did the French erect a fort at Pittsburg ? Name ? 

By whom was this fort captured, in 1758 ? Name ? 

What distinguished character gave the first accurate description of 
this place ? What was the place then called ? 

What place was the field of Washington's first fame ? 

In what year did Washington visit this place, as a mere messenger 
of a smgle Colonial Governor ? 

Under whose command did Washington visit this place in 1755? 
Some of the circumstances which occurred at this time 1 

Under whose command did Washington visit this place in 1758? 

In what year did Washington visit Pittsburg, as Commander in 
Chief of the United States ? 

In what year was Pittsburg founded ? 

What was the increase of Pittsburg for a number of years? 

Price of Indian corn ? 

Effect of establishing manufactories at Pittsburg? 

Commercial advantages of Pittsburg? 

What curious incident was mentioned by Clay, on the floor of Con- 
? 

Comparative size of the steamboat Mediterranean? Where built 1 

Population of Pittsburg ? 

How is the atmosphere of Pittsburg affected by the tar and coal 
burnt at the manufactories? 

What effect has the smoky atmosphereof Pittsburg upon strangers? 

What are some of the articles manufactured at Pittsburg? 

How many feet of timber annuully descend the Allegheny ? 

What amusing anecdote is mentioned by Dr. Matheson ? 

What are the public buildings at Pittsburg 7 

Under whose direction is the Western University ? 

Number of teachers in the Western University? Students ? 

Most interesting object that meets the eye, as we enter Pittsburg 
from the east 1 \ 

When was the Western Theological Seminary of the Presbyterian 
church founded 1 

How located ? Number of Professors ? Students ? 



BEAVER COUNTY. _ 249 

What objects are seen from an elevation near the Seminary ? 

Appearance at night *? ^ 

How is the city supplied with schools ? 

Number of periodicals published at Pittsburg ? 

How many places of public worship does the city contain? 

What benevolent Societies ? 

How is the city supplied with water ? 

How is Pittsburg supplied w^ith fuel % 

In what mines do dreadful accidents sometimes take place ? 

What accident is here described ? 

What place was visited by a party of gentlemen, who left Pittsburg 
June, 1833, 

Distance of Braddock's Field from Pittsburg ? 

What event took place at Braddock's Field in 1755 ? 

How did the party of Gentlemen, mentioned above, employ their 
time at Braddock's Field % 

Give an account of the Jtornado, which occurred on their return. 

Relate the story of young Smith. 

BEAVER COUNTY. 

In this remote region of the state, we find a variety of 
minerals. The principal are iron ore, sulphur, alum in 
various combinations, and bituminous coal in large quanti- 
ties. Recently, a new kind of coal has been discovered, 
supposed to be Kennel Coal, which is of a superior quality. 
Near Greensburg, about 12 miles from the Ohio, there is a 
very large stratum 10, 12, or perhaps 13 feet in thickness. 
Mineral springs are common. One near Frankford, is a 
good deal celebrated, and has become a place of considera- 
ble resort. The waters are said to be useful to persons 
labouring under chronic diseases and general debility. This 
is quite a romantic spot, where nature is seen in all its wild- 
ness. Going to the spring,\we climb a very narrow, rough, 
steep road, then descend a winding precipitous path, till we 
come to a vast concave rock. Directly out of this rock, the 
stream issues, falls into a small basin, and passes off through 
a deep ravine, which is thickly studded with fir tree, sugar 
maple, etc. Romantic walks extend along the banks of the 
stream. It is so very cold at the spring, that in a warm 
day, in July, we found a thick shawl very comfortable. 

The county is well watered by the Big Beaver, Little 
Beaver, Ohio, Slippery Rock, etc. Over the Big Beaver, 
near its mouth, is a large substantial bridge, 600 feet in 
32* 



250 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

length, which is said to be one of the finest specimens of 
bridge architecture in the state. About three miles above 
this is another superior bridge, of nearly the same length, 
connecting Brighton with New Brighton. Another fine 
bridge crosses the Slippery Rock. 

The southern part of Beaver has a surface, interspersed 
with alluvial flats, and extensive tracts of hilly country finely 
suited to grain and grazing, and particularly adapted to the 
raising of sheep. The mulberry and the vine are here cul- 
tivated with ease, and, in many places, they grow sponta- 
neously. The other parts of the county are adapted to all 
the common purposes of agriculture. 

Only about 38 years have elapsed since this county was 
an unbroken wilderness. Most of the pioneers went out 
with small families, and still smaller fortunes, and seated 
themselves down, prepared to endure the trials incident to 
new settlers. Full soon their fortitude was severely tested, 
for they were not only without the common comforts of 
life, but even the necessaries. If, at any time, they pro- 
cured some of the articles, which their necessities demand- 
ed, it was at an expense of time and money which they 
could by no means afford. Disheartened and hindered by 
these trying circumstances, the progress of improvement 
was slow, for a number of years. These obstacles are now, 
in a great measure removed, the population increases ra- 
pidly, and peace, and plenty, and smiling villages crown 
the returning year. 

This county, by its numerous water communications, is 
eminently adapted to commerce and manufactures. Be- 
sides its many natural advantages, it has some artificial ones. 
A canal has been constructed from the Ohio, at the mouth 
of the Big Beaver creek, to Newcastle, ia distance of about 
24 miles. A railroad has recendy been made up the valley 
of the Beaver, to connect the Ohio river with the lakes, and 
the cross-cut canals are now rapidly completing, and will 
add very much to the great natural advantages of the county. 

Within a few years, various manufactories have been es- 
tablished, principally on Big Beaver river; many new ones 
have recently been erected; population is increasing with 
great rapidity, and it is believed that the distance from the 
Ohio to the falls, must very soon become a thickly settled 
and closely built town. They are driven by the force of 
the falls, called Brighton Falls, which are well suited to the 



BEAVER COUNTY. 251 

purpose. Here, are presented numerous interesting objects 
both of nature and art. The falls, the perpendicular hills, 
the rocky precipices, the delightful valleys, the flourishing 
villages, the Big Beaver bridge, with its piers and abutments 
based on solid rock, all conduce to arrest the attention, and 
fill the mind with admiration and delight. The Falls com- 
mence about five miles above the confluence of the two 
rivers, and for two-thirds of a mile, consist of a succession 
of rapids, whose aggregate height is 75 feet. There is per- 
haps no place in the state, of the same amount of population, 
where there is more enterprize and public spirit, than at the 
Falls of Brighton. 

The county was settled by people from other parts of 
Pennsylvania, and from the north of Ireland. Their morals 
are generally good, and, as might be expected, their tempo- 
ral prosperity is increasing. There are 26 churches in the 
county, eight of which belong to the Presbyterians. They 
have Bible, Missionary, and Tract Societies, and Sunday 
Schools are generally established. 

In the county are two academies, and common schools 
are numerous. Two weekly newspapers are published at 
the town of Beaver, and one at Fallstown. There are two 
banks in the county, one at Beaver, and the other at New 
Brighton. 

Beaver, the county town, contains about 150 dwellings, 
a court house, a prison, an academy, and two churches. 
The town is finely located at the junction of the Big Beaver 
river and Ohio, on an elevated piece of table land, surround- 
ed by picturesque and beautiful scenery, but wants water. 

The rapid prosperity of the villages along Beaver river 
is insured from a variety of considerations. Their water 
power is unrivalled for any kind of machinery, and to any 
extent; the two canals, now in progress, will bring the pro- 
duce of the Ohio, and the far west to them, and transmit the 
results of manufacturing industry from New Brighton to 
other places. Railroads are in contemplation, and 8 or 10 
steamboats pass daily. Population about 5000. 

Economy is a German settlement on the west bank of 
the Ohio, 18 miles below Pittsburg. This settlement was 
made by Mr. Rapp, and his followers, who emigrated to 
this country about 32 years ago. They at first settled in 
Butler county, and built a town, to which they gave the name 
of Harmony. From there they removed to Indiana near 



252 



GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 



ECONOMY. 




the Wabash, cleared a large tract of land, built a beautiful 
town, and established various manufactories. But finding 
this a sickly climate, they purchased land on the Ohio, and 
in 1825, returned to Philadelphia, and took possession of it. 
On their arrival they found the place a wilderness; but their 
enterprise, industry, and economy soon caused it to bud and 
blossom like the rose. 

Their village is situated on an elevated bank of the Ohio, 
and consists of more than 150 houses, neatly constructed, 
and beautifully interspersed with gardens. They have an 
elegant church, one woollen factory, one cotton factory, one 
store, one druggist, one school, etc., etc., and one heart to 
have all things common. They act upon the principle, that 
selfishness is the cause of crime; that by having all things 
common, they prevent temptations to selfishness, and, of 
course, prevent crime. They have also a large and com- 
modious house, in which they have a concert hall, a muse- 
um, a library, and once a year they all assemble here and 
dine. They devote a good deal of attention to horticulture, 
and have the finest collection of plants in the state. Among 
their numerous manufactories, that of silk has been success- 
fully attempted. Their plantations of white mulberries are 
very flourishing, and thousands of little spinsters are objects 
of their care. The quality of their silk cloths is, in some 



BEAVER COUNTY. 253 

respects, superior, and tbey are in such demand as to en- 
courage the manufacture. 

The Economites are remarkable for plainness of dress. 
When on a visit to this place, having entered the hotel, the 
first object, that particularly attracted onr attention, was a 
woman, in the plainest garb, with a black cap on — next we 
saw two women returning from the field with pitchforks — 
then a company of women with hoes, having on straw hats 
as large as small umbrellas. During the time of harvest, 
the women labour in the field as well as the men. The 
Economites profess the Lutheran religion. 

Every thing owned by the Society, is common property, 
and Mr. Rapp is priest and patriarch, having the control of 
the temporal and spiritual concerns of the community. Their 
cons|itution says, " that all persons holding property, uni- 
ting with the Society, put it into the common stock, and 
may, when quitting the community, withdraw the principal 
without interest." 

The Society formerly consisted of 800 members, but 300 
were enticed away by a foreign adventurer, a few years 
since. 



In what direction is Beaver county from Allegheny ? How bound- 
ed ? Describe the principal rivers ? In what part of the county is 
the town of Beaver ? In what direction is Brighton from Beaver ? 
Frankford ? Georgetown ? Economy ? etc. 

What minerals have been discovered here ? 

What springs are common ? 

What do you recollect about Frankford Springs ? 

What is there peculiar about Big Beaver bridge 1 

What other bridges in the county ? 

Face of the country ? 

To what agricultural purposes is the soil adapted ? 

What were some of the difficulties, with which the first settlers had* 
to contend ? 

What canals in this county ? 

In what part of the county have numerous manufactories been es- 
tablished? 

By what falls are the manufactories driven ? 

What are some of the interesting objects, which arrest the atten- 
tion, in the vicinity of the falls ? 

Morals of the people ? 

Number of churches ? Benevolent Societies ? 

Number of newspapers ? Banks? 

What academies and schools are established ? - 

Which is the county town ? How situated ? 

How is Economy situated ? 



254 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

When did Mr. Rapp and his followers arrive in the United States ? 
Where did they at first locate themselves ? 
Where was their second location ? 
When did they return to Pennsylvania? 
Of how many dwellings does their village consist ? 
Mention some of the public buildings at Economy ? 
On what general principle do the Economites act ? 
With what success have they attempted the culture and manufac- 
ture of silk ? 

How are the women employed during harvest ? 

What religion do the Economites profess ? 

Of what concerns does Mr. Rapp have the control ? 

What is the substance of an article -of their constitution here given'? 

What number formerly belonged to the Society ? 

How many have withdrawn ? 

BUTLER COUNTY. 

This division of the state, though comparatively new, is 
nevertheless very flourishing, and abounds in mineral pro- 
ductions. Besides iron, salt, and bituminous coal, which 
are common in Western Pennsylvania, plumbago or black 
lead has been discovered in this county, salt works have 
been erected near Harmony and Butler, and coal is found 
in every part of the county. 

The county was settled principally by emigrants from 
other parts of Pennsylvania, and a few Irish, Scotch, and 
Germans. Little progress was made in the settlement, till 
1800. The first settlers had many difficulties to encounter 
and hardships to endure; the most serious of which were 
scarcity of food, and difliculties with land speculators. So 
disheartening were the latter, that many, after having toiled 
long to cultivate a little spot, were induced to abandon their 
houses, and seek for safety in more remote regions. These 
unpropitious circumstances, for a long time, retarded the 
progress of improvement, but they are now removed, and 
the sunshine of prosperity beams upon the land. 

The inhabitants of this county are disposed to encourage 
religious institutions, but the settlements being remote from 
each other, most clergymen are under the necessity of hav- 
ing charge of several congregations. The religious denom- 
inations are various. Presbyterians are the most numerous, 
but the Methodists are becoming popular, and are continually 
increasing. The number of churches in the county is 30. 



BUTLER COUNTY. 255 

Here is a Temperance Society in every township, and in 
some townships several societies have been formed. 

The business of education lias excited considerable in- 
terest. The people are disposed amply to reward teachers, 
but it is a lamentable fact, that they are not qualified, and 
children must be intrusted to the care of instructors, who 
scarcely understand the rudiments of education. In most 
neighbourhoods, they have a school which is open during 
winter, but closed in the summer, except in the larger towns. 
Two weekly newspapers are published at Butler. 

There are in the county several furnaces, and a good 
supply of the various kinds of mills. The trade is princi- 
pally with Pittsburg, where they send agricultural articles, 
and the manufactures of salt and iron. 

An abundance of pure water, and a fine healthy climate 
are advantages with which this county is highly favoured. 
It is said, that not an instance of fever and ague has ever 
occurred. 

The unsettled parts are mostly covered with a luxuriant 
growth of timber; fruit trees are abundant in the cultivated 
regions, grapes grow spontaneously, and some attention has 
lately been paid to the cultivation of vineyards. 

The county is well watered by the tributaries to the Al- 
legheny and Big Beaver. The Allegheny touches the north- 
east and southeast corners. 

Fossil bones have been discovered here, which aflJbrd 
evidence, that the mammoth, that prince of animals, once 
roamed over the forests in this county. While excavating 
the earth, at the salt works near Butler, in 1819, a tooth of 
one of these enormous animals was found, surrounded by 
the rubbish of decayed bones. The weight was five pounds. 

Butler is the county town, situated on the Conequenes- 
sing. It contains an academy, a court house, a prison, and 
six churches. The court house is a handsome brick edi- 
fice, located in a fine elevated situation, from which the 
prospect is very extensive; the prison is a very substantial 
brick buildingj one of the churches is of stone, all the others 
are of brick. 



In what direction is Butler county from Erie ? How bounded 1 
What rivers do you find on the map ■? Describe the largest creek? 
In what part of the county is the town of Butler ? In what direction 
is Harmony from Butler "i Woodville 1 Centreville 1 etc. 



256 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

By what people was this county settled ? 

What were some of the trials, which the first settlers were called 
to endure ? 

What institutions are the inhabitants of this county disposed to en- 
courage? 

Of how many congregations do most of their clergymen have the 
charge ? 

What account can you give of the schools in this county? 

With what city is the trade of this county mostly carried on 1 

To what article of culture has some attention been paid ? 

What enormous animal once roamed over the forest in this county? 

Weight of a grinder found near Butler, in 1819 ? 

Which is the county town ? Public buildings ? 

ARMSTRONG COUNTY. 

In the county now before us, we find mineral productions 
still more abundant than in the preceding one. Besides 
limestone, coal, and salt, we here find alum, copperas, lead, 
silver and copper. It is believed that the copper mine will 
be very productive. 

The surface and soil are greatly diversified. Large tracts 
of land may be found, which are unfit for cultivation, others 
suited only to the growth of timber, while there are exten- 
sive portions, which vie with the richest and most produc- 
tive lands in the state. 

The county is well watered by the Allegheny, Clarion, 
Red Bank, Kiskiminitas, etc. The State Canal follows the 
river along the southern boundary. 

This county is mostly peopled by German emigrants 
from Northumberland. 

The religious denominations are numerous; but the most 
prevalent are the Presbyterians. Common schools are pretty 
generally established in the county; there is an academy at 
Kittaning, and two newspapers are printed at the same 
place. 

Besides the usual products of their farms, they export 
salt and iron, for the manufacture of which they have estab- 
lished three furnaces, and numerous salt works; probably 
not less than 50 have been erected. This. county is rapidly 
going forward in the march of improvement. The population 
is at this time about 23,000, and is constantly increasing. 

Kittaning is the county town, situated on the Allegheny 



ARMSTRONG COUNTY. 257 

river, nearly forty miles from Pittsburg. The population 
is 526. The public buildings are a court house, a prison, 
two churches, and an academy. The town abounds in ex- 
cellent coal, which is delivered at the door of the purchaser 
for less than a dollar per ton, and the market is abundantly 
supplied with provisions, at a very low price. 

" Kittaning bears the name of an old Indian village, built 
upon the site. This village was burnt by Colonel, after- 
wards. Gen. Armstrong. With a force of 300 men, he 
approached the place by the river, below the town, at three 
o'clock in the morning, near a corn field, in which a num- 
ber of the enemy were lodged out of their cabins, on ac- 
count of the heat of the weather. As soon as the dawn of 
day made the town ^visible, the troops attacked it through 
the field, killing several of their foes. Captain Jacobs, their 
principal chief, sounded the war whoop, and defended the 
house bravely, through loop holes in the logs; and his In- 
dians, generally, refused quarter, declaring that they were 
men, and would not be prisoners. Col. Armstrong, who 
had received a musket ball in the shoulder, ordered the 
cabins to be set on fire. Quarters were again tendered and 
again refused, and one of the savages avowed his contempt 
of death, solaced as it would be by the slaughter of many of 
the assailants. The notes of the death song now rose high 
and loud, and were heard above the crackling and roaring of 
the flames. At length some of the Indians, among whom 
were Capt. Jacobs and his family, burst from their houses 
and attempted to cross the river, but were instantly shot 
down. The inhabitants of the town had been abundantly 
supplied with arms and ammunition, which had been stored 
in their huts. The former, being loaded, were discharged 
in quick succession, as the fire came to them, and the latter 
exploded from time to time, throwing portions of the wig- 
wams and the bodies of the inhabitants high in the air. 
Nearly 40 Indians were destroyed in the attack, eleven 
English prisoners released, and the enterprise, well timed 
and successfully executed, prevented an inroad, which had 
been planned by the French and Indians. Col. Armstrong 
and his officers received the thanks of the corporation of 
Philadelphia, and a medal was struck, commemorative of 
their success." 
23 



258 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

In what direction is Armstrong county from Beaver? How bound- 
ed? What are the principal streams in this county? 

Describe the Allegheny, 'f he Red Bank creek. 

In what part of the county is Kittani~iig? Inwhat direction isMid- 
dletown from Kittaning? Warren? etc. 

What minerals abound in this county? 

What is the «sil-and surface? 

By what people was the county settled? 

Religious denominations most prevalent? 

What schools are established? 

County town? On what river? 

What mineral is very abundant in Kittaning? 

What village formerly bore the name of Kittaning? 

Tell the story connected wilh this village? 

INDIANA COUNTY. 

This now hilly county, is supposed to have been, origi- 
nally an elevated plain. The change has probably been 
produced by occasional floods, and by the mimerous streams, 
which intersect the county in every direction, producing 
deep ravines. 

The minerals, common to Western Pennsylvania, -are 
found here, and a great number of salt works have been 
erected, near the Conemaugh river. 

The only navigable streams in the county, as is suppos- 
ed, are the Conemaugh and Mahoning. 

The county is inhabited by Irish and German emigrants. 

A fact, interesting to the friends of rehgion, is, that in 
this county, there is a church to every 650 souls; the great- 
er number belong to the Presbyterians. Various Sunday 
Schools are established, a County Bible Society, Temper- 
ance Societies, and a Missionary Society have been formed. 
Four newspapers are printed; and an academy is established 
at Indiana. The provisions for education, however, are 
very limited. 

The county is well supplied with the various kinds of 
mills, has two woollen factories, and a foundry for casting 
stoves, etc. The exports consist, principally, in agricultural 
articles and salt. I'he manufacture of salt is a profitable 
business, and is constantly increasing. 

Indiana, the county town, contains sixty or seventy 
dwellings, a court house, a prison, an academy, and three 
churches. 



INDIANA COUNTY, 259 

"The first attempt to make a settlement in the limits of 
Indiana county, is believed to have been made in the year 
1769, in the forks of the Conemaugh and Blacklick. The 
country was explored in 1776-7, and the explorers were 
particularly pleased with the spot, on which the town of 
Indiana now stands. It was clear of timber or brush, and 
clothed with high grass; a sort of prairie. AVhen the set- 
tlers commenced improvements, withhi a few miles of the 
town, they cut the grass off the prairie, for the support of 
their cattle in the winter; but in making their hay they 
were greatly annoyed by rattlesnakes. 

"About the year 1771 or 1772, Fergus Moorhead and 
James Kelly commenced improvements near where the 
town of Indiana naw stands. The country around might 
well be termed a howling wilderness, for it was full of 
wolves. 

"As soon as these adventurers had erected their cabins, 
each betook himself, at night, to his own castle. One 
morning Mr. Moorhead paid a visit to his neighbour Kelly, 
and was surprised to find, near his cabin, traces of blood, 
:and tufts of human hair. Kelly was not to be found. Moor- 
head, believing him to have been killed by the wolves, was 
cautiously looking out for his remains, when he discovered 
him sitting by a spring, washing the blood from his hair. 

" He had' lain down in his cabin at night and fallen asleep: 
a wolf reached through a crack between the logs, and 
seized him by the head. This was repeated twice or thrice 
before he was sufficiently awakened to change his position. 
The smallness of the crack, and the size of his head pre- 
vented the wolf from grasping it so far as to have a secure 
hold, and that saved his life. Sometime after this, the two 
adventurers returned to Franklin county for their families, 
and on their return they were joined by others. 

" The privations of such a situation can, in some degree 
be measured by the difficulty of obtaining bread stuff, and 
other necessaries of life, of which the following is an ex- 
ample. 

"Moses Chambers was another early settler. Having 
served several years on board of a British man of war, he 
was qualified for a life of danger and hardship. Moses 
continued to work on his improvements, till he was told, 
one morning, that the last Johnny-cake was at the fire! 
What was to be done? There was no possibility of a sup- 



260 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

ply short of Conegocheague. He caught his horse and 
made ready. He broke the Johnny-cake in two pieces, and 
giving one half to his wife, the partner of his perils and 
fortunes, he put up the other half in the lappet of his coat, 
with thorns, and turned his horse's head toward the east. 

" There were no inns on the road, in those days, nor a 
habitation west of the mountains; save, perhaps, a hut or 
two at Fort 1 igonier. The Kittaning path was used to 
Ligonier, and from thence, the road made by General 
Forbes' army. Where good pasture could be had for his 
horse Moses tarried and baited. To him, day was as night, 
and night as day. He slept only while his horse was feed- 
ing. Nor did he give rest to his body, or ease to his mind, 
until he returned with his sack stored with corn. 

" How forcibly would the affecting story of the patriarch 
Jacob, apply itself to the condition of families, thus cir- 
cumstanced. Jacob said to his sons, 'Why do ye look one 
upon another? — and he said, behold, I have heard that there 
is corn in Egypt ; get you down thither, and buy for us 
from thence, that we may live and not die.' 

" Moses Chambers was not the only one who had to en- 
counter the fatigue and trouble of procuring supplies from 
Franklin county. All had to do so. Such was the condi- 
tion of this country, and such the prospect of settlers after 
the peace of 1763!"* 

But as great as these difficuhies were, the first settlers 
of Indiana had others to encounter of a still more serious 
nature. The savage and hostile Indians gave them much 
trouble. Several of the inhabitants were killed and scalped; 
others were forced to leave their homes and seek a place of 
safety on the eastern side of the mountains. Kelly and 
Moorhead had many narrow escapes from the Indians. 
But they finally caught Moorhead, together with a settler 
by the name of Simpson. Simpson was killed and Moor- 
head was carried through the woods to Quebec, where he 
was confined 11 months. He was afterwards exchanged 
and sent to New York, and from thence made his way to 
his family. His wife and three children had fled to a place 
of safety, in a fort in Westmoreland county, and from 
thence to Franklin. 



Hazard's Register. 



INDIANA COUNTY. 2&1 

In what direction is Indiana county from Westmoreland? How 
bounded? In what part of the county is the town of Indiana? In 
what direction is Blairsville from Indiana? Nicholsburg-? Saltz- 
burg? etc. 

What are the principal streams? 

What is the surface of the country? 

By what people is the county inhabited? 

What fact, interesting to the friends of religion, is here mentioned? 

To what denomination does the greater number of churches belong? 

What schools are established? What benevolent Societies are 
formed? 

Number of newspapers printed? 

What is said of the manufacture of salt? 

Which is the county town? What account can you give of the first 
settlers? / 

At what time was the first attempt to make a settlement in In- 
diana county? 

Mention four items relating to the spot on which Indiana now stands? 

Tell the story about James Kelly and the wolf. Moses Chambers, 

What people gave the first settlers of Indiana much trouble? 

How were the inhabitants treated by the Indians? 

What was the fate of Moorhead and Simpson? 



JEFFERSON COUNTY. 

This county, comparatively new, is, for the most part, 
unimproved. Indeed we may almost consider it a wilder- 
ness. In 1830, two or three thousand of English and Ger- 
mans comprised the whole population. 

The county has a hilly surface, abounds in iron, and coal 
may be obtained every where. Some of the valleys are 
very fertile, but the soil is, for the most part, only tolerable. 
It is well watered by Clarion river, Sandy Lick creek, and 
numerous other streams, has the benefit of a state road, and 
two or three turnpikes. 

In the county are two or three grist mills, six or eight 
saw mills, and, unless we include venison hams, lumber is 
the only article of exportation. Vast quantities of white 
pine boards are rafted down the rivers to Pittsburg. In 
1830, two millions of feet were thus disposed of. 

Various religious denominations are established here, and 
the county is fast improving. 

Jefferson was within the purchase made of the Indians, 
in 1783. But these natives of the forests were very un- 
friendly, and continued hostile till 1797. While the county 
33* 



262 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

was a wilderness, and still inhabited by the Indians, Joseph 
Barrett moved here and commenced a settlement at the 
junction of the two branches of the Sandy creek. This 
persevering man, who is still living, erected a saw mill, 
and carried the first lumber down the western waters to 
market. The Indians finally moved away, the settlements 
progressed, and the place is much celebrated, called Port 
Barrett. 

Brookfield, the seat of justice is situated a mile and a 
half west of Port Barrett. The town contains 40 or 50 
dwellings, a handsome court house, and a jail. Ridgway is 
at the junction of Elk creek and Clarion river. Here is a 
fine tannery, and 5 or 6 of the best saw mills in Western 
Pennsylvania. 

In what direction is Jefferson county from Washington? How 
bounded? 

Describe the Clarion river. 

What is the population of the county? 

Surface? 

The only article of exportation? 

Who carried the first lumber down the western waters to markef? 

Name of the place where Joseph Barrett settled? 

Seat of justice in this county? 

. VENANGO COUNTY. 

This county, though not much improved, possesses much 
greater natural advantages than some of the adjoining ones. 

Besides the minerals, common to Western Pennsylvania, 
on Oil creek, are several springs, from which the famous 
seneca oil is obtained. 

The surface is generally hilly; the streams are numerous, 
and flow through deep ravines; the soil is generally good, 
the river bottoms are rich and productive, and some of them 
very extensive. The county is admirably watered by fine 
navigable rivers, is traversed by the Pennsylvania Canal, 
and one turnpike road. 

The prevailing religious denominations are Presbyterians, 
Episcopalians, Methodists, Baptists, etc. They have Sun- 
day Schools, a County Bible Society, Temperance Socie- 
ties, and, in the more thickly settled neighbourhoods, schools 



VENANGO COUNTY. 263 

are established, in which the rudiments of English educa- 
tion are taught. 

The only article, manufactured to any considerable ex- 
tent, is iron. They have several furnaces and some forges. 
The iron manufactories are multiplying, and the tide of 
emigration is rapidly flowing in. Among the articles of 
exportation, is sand stone, for the manufacture of glass; 
vast quantities of which are sent to the glass works at 
Pittsburg. 

The towns of this county are " few and far between." 
Franklin, the seat of justice, is situated near French creek 
just at its entrance into the Allegheny river. It is entirely 
surrounded with hills, which, on every side, rear their heads 
in grandeur and beauty. Along the river they rise almost 
perpendicularly from the water's edge. The town contains 
about four hundred inhabitants, and is rapidly improving. 
The public buildings are a court house, a jail, an academy, 
an Episcopalian and Presbyterian church. Near the town 
was Franklin Fort, built during the French War, from which 
the place takes its name. The fort is now destroyed, but 
some of the embankments remain. 

In what direction is Venango county from Mercer ? How bounded? 
In what part of the county is Franklin ? 

What are the three principal streams ? Describe the Allegheny. 
French creek. Clarion river. 

What minerals are found here '? Face of the country ? Soil 1 

What facilities have the people of this county for commerce ? 

What benevolent Societies are mentioned ? 

What schools established ? 

What is the only considerable article manufactured 1 

What article is exported in vast quantities 1 

Which is the county town 1 How situated ^ 

From what circumstance does Franklin take its name ? 

MERCER COUNTY. 

Here we find a hilly, rolling surface, and a soil adapted 
to grain and grazing. The inhabitants think it the best 
country in the world for pasturage, and pay great attention 
to the raising of sheep. 

Copperas is found in great abundance near Mercer, and 
coal in several townships. A valuable mine of the very 



264 GEOGHAPIIY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

best quality has lately been discovered in Hickney town- 
ship, near Sharon. The vein is from five to seven feet 
thick. A single solid lump has been taken out of this mine 
weighing upwards of 900 pounds. This mine, and those 
of the neighbourhood will go far toward supplying the upper 
lakes with this valuable fuel. Iron ore, of the bog and kid- 
ney species, abounds in different parts of the county. Large 
quantities of limestone are found in many places near the 
Shenango. This will become a valuable article of trade as 
soon as the public works are completed. 

The county is well watered, principally, by the Shenango 
and its numerous branches. It has the advantage of two 
turnpike roads, and the Pennsylvania Canal extends into 
the interior. 

This county was settled by emigrants from other parts 
of Pennsylvania, but the population has recently been aug- 
mented by Irish, English, and German settlers. 

Here are twelve churches, a County Bible Society, nu- 
merous Sunday Schools, and special efforts are making for 
the support of common schools. 

Mercer, the seat of justice, is beautifully situated on a 
plain, near the Neshannock creek. The town contains 
about 700 inhabitants, a court house of brick, a stone prison, 
an academy, and four churches. It is a very neat, pretty 
village, and whether we regard it in a natural, moral, or in- 
tellectual point of view, it possesses many attractions. The 
inhabitants are interesting and intelligent, and are said to be 
a reading people. They support two printing establish- 
ments, and manifest a decided interest in the benevolent 
operations of the day. 

In the neighbourhood of this town, is an extensive manu- 
factory of copperas; and about five miles from the town, on 
a little stream, called Horn's Run, are Horn's Falls. They 
are interesting, not so much on account of the height of the 
falls or quantity of water, as from the wild, rugged, and 
romantic boldness, with which the place abounds. The 
sound of the water, descending from rock to rock, the steep 
perpendicular bluffs, the tall trees and deep ravines, all con- 
spire to show the wildness of uncultivated nature. The 
stream, however, though small, is sufficient to drive several 
mills. 

About three miles from Mercer, in another direction, are 
several caves. After leaving the road, we pass through the 



CRAWFORD COUNTY. 265 

woods for about half a mile, ascend a hill, and then come to 
an enormous pile of rocks, so extensive as to constitute a 
great part of the hill. In an opening in these rocks, we 
found the principal cave. The entrance is horizontal, suffi- 
ciently large for an individual to go in comfortably. After 
going about six or eight feet, there is a perpendicular de- 
scent for a few feet, then the passage increases and dimin- 
ishes alternately, and finally, opens into day on the opposite 
side of the hill. Beneath the cave is rough and wet, above 
smooth and handsome. A very cool current of air con- 
stantly issues from the mouth, and ice is found there during 
the whole of summer. 

Tn what direction is Mercer from Erie ? How bounded ? 

What rivers do you find on the map? Describe theShenango. In 
what part of the county is the town of Mercer ? In what direction is 
New Castle from Mercer ? Greenville ? Georgetown ? New Bed- 
ford ? Sharon? 

To what articles of culture is the soil of this county adapted ? 

What minerals are found here ? 

By what people is the county settled ? 

Number of churches ? What benevolent Institutions ? 

Which is the county town? 

Number of inhabitants in Mercer 1 Public buildings ? 

What is said in favour of Mercer ? 

What manufactory in the neighbourhood of Mercer ? 

On what account is Horn's Run interesting ? 

What do you recollect about a cave in the neighbourhood of Mercer? 



CRAWFORD COUNTY. 

This is a pleasant healthy county, and very desirable as 
a place of residence. 

The principal minerals found here, are iron and salt; 
coal has not yet been discovered, though indications of it 
are perceptible. Another production of the county is oil, 
found in the vicinity of Oil creek. Hollow places are made 
in the low spongy ground, bordering on the creek, which 
are immediately filled, and on the surface is an oil, which 
is taken off, and used for lamps and various other purposes. 
Considerable quantities are annually exported by the name 
of Seneca Oil. 

The surface of the county is generally rolling, and the 
soil, for the most part, good; very Utile poor land is found 



1^66 GEOGRAPHY OP PENNSYLVANIA. 

in the whole region. It is, however, better adapted to graz- 
ing than grain, and cattle and horses form important articles 
of exportation. Its principal market is Pittsburg. The 
county is well supplied with water and timber. The prin- 
cipal stream is French creek, a very important tributary to 
the Allegheny, uncommonly beautiful, and navigable, for 
large boats and rafts, the greater part of the year. Great 
quantities of hay and timber are sent down this stream. 
They enter the Allegheny, thence the Ohio, and are even 
carried as far as New Orleans. In clearing the land, in 
these new countries, vast quantities of wood are consumed 
to ashes, large ash factories are established, the ashes are 
carried there, converted into pearl ash, etc. and sold at Pitts- 
burg and elsewhere. Thousands of dollars are said to be 
brought into the county every year by this means. 

A branch of the Pennsylvania Canal, which commences 
at the mouth of the French creek, extends to Meadville. 

Crawford county is adorned by three elegant sheets of 
water, the Conneaut, the Oil creek, and the Sugar creek 
lakes. The first is five miles in length, and two in breadth, 
abounding with fish, the others are smaller, but equally or- 
namental. In the county are three turnpike roads, 28 
churches, 63 Sabbath Schools, and 63 common schools. 

The several benevolent Societies, established here, are a 
Bible Society, Colonization Society, Internal Improvement 
Society, Agricultural Society, and Emigration Society. 

Meadville, the seat of justice, contains about 1500 inhabi- 
tants, is a healthy pleasant place, beautifully located on the 
left bank of French Creek, near the northern limits of a de- 
lightful valley. From the river, the bank gradually ascends 
to the centre of the town, where is a spacious and elegant 
square. In this square, stands the court house, the Epis- 
copalian and Presbyterian churches. The other public 
buildings are three churches, an academy, the state Arsenal, 
and AUegbeny College. Most of these buildings are fine 
spacious edifices; the court house is said to be one of the 
most elegant, beautiful, and convenient in the state. 

On a commanding eminence, about half a mile from the 
town, stands the College. It is situated on a fine declivity, 
commanding a charming view of the surrounding country. 
Indeed, the prospect is ouq of the most inviting and varie- 
gated; one on which the eye rests with unmingled pleasure 
The edifice is of brick and cut stone, of the Ionic order, 



I 



CRAWFORD COUNTY. ' 267 

and consists of a centre building with wings, is 120 feel front, 
44 feet deep, and the mainbuiklingis four stories in height; 
the wings are three. Much good taste is displayed in the 
construction of the cupola, and the building, altogether may- 
be regarded as a very ornamental specimen of architecture. 
This College was established by the Rev. T. Alden, seve- 
ral years since, but is now wholly under the direction of 
the Methodist Conference, and is very flourishing. It has 
been in operation but one year, and has already 120 students. 
It is under the superintendance of the Rev, Dr. Ruter as 
President, and has two pro/essors and two teachers. 

Providence seems, in a peculiar manner, to smile on this 
infant Seminary. The students are very correct in their 
deportment, fifty are hopefully pious, and a large number 
are looking forward to the ministry. Connected with the 
I College, is a manual labour department, consisting of a farm 
\ of 60 acres, and a work shop. By this means, 40 students, 
who would otherwise be unable to defray the expense of 
I their education, are connected with the College. The In- 
! stitution is furnished with a Chemical and Philosophical appa- 
j ratus, and a very choice library, consisting of 8000 volumes. 
The editor of the Crawford Messenger remarks. " The 
College bell has been hung — it is of a fine tone, weighs up- 
wards of 300 pounds, and can be very distinctly heard over 
the town. We have now five fine bells, viz: the court 
house, College, Episcopal Church, Presbyterian Church, 
and academy; the largest of which is the court house, 
weighing, we believe, 800 pounds, and has been distinctly 
heard a distance of seven or eight miles. In our village, 
six denominations meet weekly for worship. Bishop On- 
derdonk remarked, that the Episcopal church of this place 
was, in an architectural point of view, the finest in the 
diocese." 

On the north border of the town Col. Magaw, the inven- 
tor of straw paper, has a large and commodious building for 
the manufacture of that article. He had, previously, con- 
ducted a rag paper establishment. On examining some 
straw, which had been placed at the bottom of a barrel of 
ashes, prepared for making lie, he observed that it looked 
soft, and thought it might be of use in the manufacture of 
paper. Perceiving that it was tough, and seemed to pos- 
sess an adhesive quality, he was induced to chew some of 
it, which he rubbed on a board, and placed in the sun to 



268 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

dry. Finding that it had considerable texture, he tried the 
experiment of making paper on a small scale, and succeed- 
ing in this, he obtained a patent right, and erected his straw 
paper establishment. It is found to be a very cheap and 
useful article. Recently, an edition of the New Testament 
has been printed of this paper, costing only five cents per 
copy. 

In what direction is Crawford county from Warren ? How bound- 
"V ed ? Most important streams ? Describe the French creek. In what 
part of the county is Meadville ? In what direction is Centreville 
from Meadville ? Pottersville ? Conneaut town ? etc. 

What minerals are found here ? 

What kind of oil is found in this county? How collected ? 

Important articles of exportation ? 

Principal streams ? 

What articles are carried down the French creek ? 

What is done with the ashes, which accumulate in these new coun- 
tries ? 

What canal in Crawford county ? 

By what natural objects is this county ornamented ? 

Number of churches ? Schools ? 

Which is the county town ? How situated ? 

Public buildings ? 

How is Allegheny College situated ? 

Under the direction of what denomination of Christians is Allegheny 
College? 

Number of students in Allegheny College ? Teachers ? Who is 
President ? 

What advantages result from the manual labour department, con- 
nected with this College ? 

With what apparatus is the College furnished ? 

What library ? 

What manufactory oil the north side of Meadville ? 

Give an account of the invention of straw paper. 

Cost per copy of the New Testament on straw paper ? 

WARREN COUNTY. 

You will not expect to find much that is interesting in a 
county which contains less than 5000 inhabitants. We are 
happy, however, to learn that even in this sparse population, 
there are a number of Sabbath Schools, and that all the 
School districts are entitled to the state appropriation for 
Public Schools, by voting to raise twice that amount. 

Belonging to the secondary formation, we might expect 



WARREN COUNTY. 269 

in this county, to find coal, salt, and iron; but neither of 
these minerals have, as yet, been discovered. It is suppo- 
sed, however, that they exist, but that they lie deeper than 
in other parts of the state. 

The soil is much diversified; the land bordering on the 
Broken Straw creek is so stony, that an eastern speculator 
has said, " that it will never, probably, be settled, unless 
by an earthquake." In the northern townships, the land 
is good, and the river bottoms are ■ considered of the best 
quality. The surface is rolling. 

The county is abundantly supplied with streams of ex- 
cellent water, the principal of which are the Allegheny and 
its numerous branches. A great number of saw mills are 
erected on some of these streams, and the inhabitants are 
extensively engaged in the lumber business. An impulse 
has recently been given to the industry of the inhabitants, 
by means of steamboats, which are adapted to the waters of 
the Allegheny. These boats may now ascend the river as 
far as the town of Warren. 

Warren, the seat of justice, is finely situated on the north 
bank of the Allegheny. It stands on an elevated plain, and 
commands an extensive view of the river, the country, etc. 
A bank was established here in 1835. 

The county buildings consist of an academy, a neat brick 
court house, and a prison, so contemptible in its appear- 
ance, that it is said to have been repeatedly mistaken for a 
turkey pen. 

In what direction is Warren from Venango ? How bounded ? In 
what part of the county is the town of Warren ? In what direction 
is Sugar Grove from Warren ? Lottsville? Youngs ville? Describe 
the Allegheny river. 

Population of the county ? 

What measures have been taken for the establishment of Public 
Schools? 

What is stated respecting minerals ? 

In what business are the inhabitants extensively engaged ? 

By v/hat means has an impulse recently- been given to the industry 
of the inhabitants ? 

Which town is the seat of justice ? How situated ? 

Public buildings ? 



24 



270 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 



ERIE COUNTY. 

This county is one of the most flourishing districts in the 
northern part of Pennsylvania, contains more than 35,000 
inhabitants, and is constantly increasing. All the land, with 
little exception, is arable, and susceptible of high cultivation. 
The surface is rolling, the county being traversed in its 
whole extent, by a ridge. The southern slope is well 
adapted to grass, and contains many large and profitable 
dairios. The northern, bordering on the lake, produces the 
finest of wheat, corn, and other kinds of grain. The coun- 
ty abounds in mills, and mill seats, and is capable of sus- 
taining, by its productions, and the enterprise of its inhabi- 
tants, a dense population. Salt springs and iron ore have 
been discovered. 

The county is intersected by a great number of streams, 
is traversed by a fine turnpike road, and common roads are 
numerous in every direction. 

Settlers from diflerent parts of Pennsylvania, have esta- 
blished themselves here, but the inhabitants are chiefly com 
posed of emigrants from New England. 

The county contains various religious denominations and 
has numerous benevolent Societies. Sunday Schools are 
generally established. 

Here are several flourishing towns and villages, the most 
important of which, is Erie, the county town, delightfully 
situated on Lake Erie, at the termination of the Pennsyl- 
vania Canal. It contains more than .3000 inhabitants, has 
four churches, two banks, thirty stores, an academy, a select 
school, called the Erie Institute, a Seminary for the educa- 
tion of young ladies, a court house, and publishes two pa- 
pers. The United States Forts are established here. 

The trade carried on by the lake, is extensive and rapidly 
increasing. This inland sea is traversed by 440 steamboats, 
and more than 200 schooners and ships. These circum- 
stances, together with its situation on a large and handsome 
lake, 300 miles in length, with a capacious, beautiful, and 
now safe harbour, conspire to render Erie one of the most 
flourishing places in the state. 

The location of Erie affords an extensive, and delightful 
view of the bay and adjoining lake. 

Approaching the town, we are delighted to exchange a 



i 



ERIE COUNTY. 271 

land prospect, for a view of the spreading flood. When 
entering Erie, we at once, see a display of much taste and 
elegance in the style of building. And the white sails, un- 
furled on the bosom of the lake, add much to the beauty 
of the scenery. 

Lake Erie is remarkably boisterous. The dashing of 
its waters resembles the foaming billows of the ocean. The 
shores are steep and rocky, and the streams, descending to 
the lake, form a great numbpr of beautiful cascades. For 
the improvement of the harbour, at Erie, the general govern- 
ment has appropriated $100,000. With the expenditures 
recently made, and those expected to be made, it is believed, 
that this harbour will stand unrivalled by any in the United 
States. 

Waterford, Wattsburg, North East, Girard, and Wash- 
ington are all flourishing villages, containing from two to 
three churches each, fine schools, and other institutions fa- 
vourable to the cultivation of intelligence, morals, and reli- 
gion. 

During the late war Erie was distinguished as an import- 
ant military station. Here Perry's fleet was built with 
unexampled expedition. In seventy days, after the first 
blow was g^iven to the timber in the forest, the squadron 
was ready for action. The success, which attended the 
engagement, was equal to the despatch with which the fleet 
was prepared. The victory was complete; previous disas- 
ters were retrieved, and the suffering frontiers were restored 
to peace and tranquillity. The inhabitants of Erie delight 
in the praises of this young hero. They hold him in grate- 
ful remembrance and recount his doings with glowing 
satisfaction. The captured vessels remained for a long time 
sunk in the harbour. Recently two of them, Queen Charlotte 
and Lawrence have been raised, fitted up, and are now em- 
ployed on the lake. The Detroit is raised, but not yet 
finished. 

Here General Wayne died on his return from the Indian 
war, and in compliance- with his request, he was buried in 
the old fort now rapidly going to decay. His remains have 
since been removed by his friends. 

Some attempts have been made to manufacture silk in 
this county, and they have been attended with such success, 
as to warrant an increased attention to the business. It is 
thought to be the most profitable business to which a man, 



272 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

with a family and small lot, could turn his attention, and it 
is confidently believed, that the manufacture could be so 
increased, as to render this part of the country independent 
of foreign nations, for the article of silk. 

Riding along the shores of Lake Erie, from the town of 
Erie to Buffalo, we were delighted with the fine ridge road; 
but when we came to Twenty-miie creek, our attention 
was particularly attracted with the very unpleasant appear- 
ance of the place. Here, nature seems presented in its 
most uncouth form. The place seems, formerly, to have 
been an elevated plain; but the waters have forced their 
way through, and dashed it into every varied form and 
size, presenting flat bottoms, and the most unshapely, naked, 
perpendicular precipices of stone and sand. The hill, 
which we descended, had been very much dug away, still 
it was necessary to lock the wheels; the opposite one, 
which we ascended, was almost perpendicular. Directly 
out of one of these blufls, issues a sulphur spring, and a 
num.ber more have been found in this vicinity; also some, 
impregnated with other substances. One of them has be- 
come a place of considerable resort for invalids. 

In what direction is Erie county from Crawford? How bounded? 
Which is the principal stream'? In what part of the county is the 
town of Erie? In what direction is Waterford from Erie? Fairview? 
Lexington? 

What is the population of Erie county? Soil? Productions? Sur- 
face? Minerals'? Roads? 

Which is the county town? 

How situated? Population? 

Number of churches? Institutions for education, etc? 

What is said of the trade carried on by the lake? 

By what number of steamboats and schooners is Lake Erie travers- 
ed? 

Length of Lake Erie? 

What view does the location of Erie afford? 

What adds much to the beauty of the scenery at Erie? 

For what is Lake Erie remarkable? 

What facts are stated respecting the harbour at Erie? 

Mention some of the flourishing villages in this county? What 
institutions in these villages? 

How was the place occupied during the late war? 

How long a time was occupied in building Perry's fleet? 

What do you recollect respecting Perry? 

What do you recollect about the captured vessels? . 

What is here said of General Wayne? 

With what success have attempts been made lor the manufacture 
of silk, in this county? 



MISCELLANEOUS QUESTIONS. 273 

What can you tell about the scenery on Twenty-mile creek? 
What springs are found here? 



MISCELLANEOUS QUESTIONS. NO. 4. 

In what part of the state is Washington county? 

Where is Jefferson College located? 

What distinguished character gave the first accurate account of the 
site of Pittsburg? 

What useful practice in the Sabbath School at Canonsburg? 

Population of Pittsburg? 

What places can you mention where the grape and the mulberry 
can be cultivated with ease? 

In which county is Indiana the seat of justice? 

Describe the French creek. 

In which county is Brookville the seat of justice? 

Which county is traversed, in its whole extent, by a ridge? 

Appearance of Washington county and some other parts of West- 
ern Pennsylvania, when viewed from an eniinence, and at a distance? 

What college is located at Canonsburg? 

What proportion of the cultivated lands, in Washington county, is 
occupied by slieep? 

What place was the field of Washington's first fame*? 

Describe the Clarion river. 

What is done with the ashes, which accumulate in new countries? 

Where is Washington College located? 

In what year was Pittsburg founded? 

What canals in Beaver county? 

In which county is Meadville the seat of justice? 

What two colleges in Washington county? 

Where is Allegheny county? 

Curious incident mentioned by Clay on the floor of Congress? 

What is the comparative size of the steamboat Mediterranean? 
Where built? 

What account can you give of a tornado which occurred near Pitts-? 
burg? 

In what direction is Beaver county from Washington? 

In what part of Beaver county are numerous manufactories? 

Where is Butler county? 

What interesting facts can you mention, in relation to the first set- 
of Indiana county? 

How many colleges in Western Pennsylvania'? 

Describe the Allegheny river. The Monongahela. 

Seat of justice in Beaver county^ 

What do you recollect about Frankfbrd Spring? 

Where is found one of the finest specimens of bridge architecture 
in the state? 

Describe the Big Beaver river. 

24* 



2?4 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

What college in Western Pennsylvania is under the direction of 
the Methodist Conference? 

What city is the great depot of Western Pennsylvania? 

Tell the story of young Smith? 

How is Economy situated? 

In which county is Butler the seat of justice? 

Where is Jefferson county? 

Advantages resulting from the manual labour department in Alle- 
gheny College? 

What circumstances add much to the beauty of the scenery on 
Lake Erie? 

What place may be considered a vast assemblage of manufacturing 
establishments? 

When did Mr. Rapp and his followers arrive in this country? 

What enormous animal once roamed over the forests in Butler 
county? 

What do you recollect about Laurel Hill Cave? 

In what direction is Crawford county from Greene? 

How is the atmosphere of Pittsburg affected by the tar and coal 
burnt at the manufactories? 

What do you recollect about Mr, Rapp and his followers? 

In what direction is Allegheny county from Greene? 

Venango from Mercer? 

Where was straw paper invented? 

For what is Lake Erie remarkable? 

What effect has the smoky atmosphere of Pittsburg on strangers ? 

In which county is Franklin the seat of justice ? 

What has an eastern speculator affirmed respecting a part of War- 
ren county ? 
.Where is the Western University located ? 

What event took place at Braddock's Field, in 1755 ? 

In which county is Meadville the seat of justice ? 

How was Erie occupied during the late War ? 

"Which county is in the northeast corner of the state ? 

Describe the Youghiogheny river. 

In which county is Union the seat of justice ? 

Where is Allegheny College located ? 

In which county is Warren the seat of justice ? 

In what part of the state is Fayette county? 

What amount of paper is annually made at Connellsville and New- 
Haven? 

In which county is Mercer the seat of justice ? 

Where is Westmoreland county ? 

Describe the Kiskiminitas. 

What city is most abundantly supplied with fuel ? 

In what direction is Indiana from Armstrong ? 

What college is located at Meadville ? 

Cost per copy of .the New Testament on straw paper ? 

In which county is Erie the seat of justice ? 

With" what success has the manufacture of silk been attempted in 
Erie county ? 



TEMPERANCE. 275 



TEMPERANCE. 



The subject of Temperance may seem rather unappro- 
priate for a geography. Bui its great importance, and the 
special importance of its being presented to the youthful 
mind, is our apology for stating a few facts on this subject 
in this work. 

You may probably be surprised, my dear pupils, to learn 
that only about three hundred years have elapsed, since the 
retail of ardent spirit was confined to the apothecary's shop, 
and it was used only as medicine. About the beginning of 
the fifteenth century, it escaped from its confinement in the 
medicine chest, to spread its destructive influence over the 
world at large. 

The proportion of murders by intemperance is immense, 
and almost incredible. In 1830, the consumption of ardent 
spirit, in the United States, exceeded 70,000,000 of gallons, 
and the number of habitual drunkards was about 300,000. 
In Pennsylvania alone there were at one period, 3,334 dis- 
tilleries, which manufactured 6,553,248 gallons of ardent 
spirit. Of the 200,000 paupers, in the United States, four- 
fifths are reduced to pauperism by intemperance; of the 
75,000 convicts immured in our prisons, 60,000 owe their 
infamy to the use of alcohol; of 3,000 insane persons, con- 
fined in our hospitals, 1,500 have been deprived of their 
reason by the influence of intoxication. 

But the efforts, which are making to counteract this de- 
stroying influence, are most encouraging. The number of 
Temperance Societies, existing in the United States, ex- 
ceeds 8,000; more than 1,200 vessels now navigate the ocean 
without the use of ardent spirit; more than 4,000 distille- 
ries have been stopped; more than 12,000 drunkards have 
been reclaimed; two hundred public houses have ceased to 
sell any kind of intoxicating liquor; 60,000 farmers and me- 
chanics have totally rehnquished the use of it; and 8,000 
venders of ardent spirits have renounced the traffic, as 
morally wrong. 

That the cause of temperance is progressing in Pennsyl- 
vania, there is the most unequivocal evidence. This is 
evident from the numerous Temperance Societies and Tem- 
perance Hotels, that are multiplying through our state, from 
the quietness of taverns; from the stillness, regularity, and 



276 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

order that prevail in large public houses, from the supres- 
sion of a great number of distilleries, etc. 

The Pennsylvania State Temperance Society has gone 
on increasing in number, respectability, and influence. 
Considering the obstacles, which temperance had to encoun- 
ter in a state which possessed nearly half as many distille- 
ries as the rest of the Union, the success has been truly sur- 
prising. Auxiliary societies have been formed in many of 
the counties, and the most encouraging results are related 
of their progress. Information has been received from aux- 
iliaries in Philadelphia, Montgomery, Chester, Lancaster, 
Northampton, Washington, Centre, Cambria, Bradford, 
Susquehanna, Bucks, Allegheny, Erie, Westmoreland, 
Franklin, Luzerne, Indiana, Juniata, York, Fayette, Union, 
Dauphin, Mifflin, and Butler. Erie enumerates 15 subor- 
dinate institutions, comprising 1,400 members. In Wash- 
ington county there are 22 auxiliaries, including 3,000 mem- 
bers. The accounts from Buder are highly satisfactory. 

The report of the Columbia Temperance Society, Lan- 
caster county, is~ most favourable and gratifying. Auxiliary 
institutions are springing up; many farmers gather their crops 
without the use of ardent spirit, and the fine bridge over the 
Susquehanna was, we believe, completed without the agen- 
cy of such a beverage. In Tuscarora Valley, Juniata county, 
eight distilleries are discontinued, and four stores have 
ceased to retail ardent spirit. In Mifflin county, the num- 
ber of members is 850, and six distilleries have been dis- 
continued. In Crawford county, it is said, that formerly, 
there were 40 distilleries, that now, they can scarcely num- 
ber four. In a httle town on the Susquehanna river, there 
were formerly eight distilleries, now there is but one, and 
that in operation only three months of the year. In Phila- 
delphia, though there is much to deplore, the cause is advanc- 
ing; a Society is instituted in every ward, young men are 
associated for the promotion of this object, a weekly paper 
is circulated, etc. The South wark Temperance Society, 
and the Philadelphia Juvenile Temperance Society, number- 
ing about 1000 members under 14 years of age, have adopted 
the pledge of total abstinence from all intoxicating drinks. 

Recently the friends of Temperance, with the aid of the 
Rev. Thomas P. Hunt, have made great efforts to promote 
their cause. The largest churches have been insufficient to 



TEMPEIlANCfi. STt 

hold the people, who have pressed to the meetings, and 
more than 2000 liave signed the pledge of total abstinence. 

Many other facts might be mentioned equally encour- 
aging, and it is truly affecting to see how this glorious cause 
is going forward, how this plague is beginning to be stayed 
in our land, how it writhes and withers under the influence 
of truth. Oh, that all the youth of our land would arise, 
and with one united effort, exert their influence completely 
to destroy the monster. 

It must, however, be understood, that this glorious cause 
is not going forward without much opposition. The de- 
stroyer, as he sees his end approaching, will no doubt make 
numerous expiring efforts, and commit dreadful depreda- 
tions before he completely yields up the ghost. The advo- 
cates of this cause have much selfishness, stupidity, and 
many confirmed habits of intoxication to contend with. 

And now, my dear young friends, let me ask if you will 
not avail yourselves of the high privilege of doing all you 
can for the promotion of this important object? Will you 
not, with all the energies of your soul, come up to the help 
of the Lord against this mighty destroyer? Do you say, 
we are young and can do but little. Because you are young 
is the very reason why you can do much. Boldly resolve 
that you will have nothing to do with this deadly poison, 
that you will touch not, taste not, handle not. Let the in- 
fluence of your salutary example be seen and felt; let it be 
such, that you will have cause to rejoice when time with 
you shall be no more.* 

* It is said that the* Quakers of Pennsylvania first set the example 
of abstaining- from all participation of the trade or manufacture of ar- 
dent spirit. William Penn not only wrote against alcoholic drinks, 
and punished their intemperate use by fine andimprisonment, but ab- 
stinence from them, was inculcated in the Discipline and periodical 
Queries of the sect. The Friends may be said to have been the ^rs£ 
Temperance Society in existence. The longevity of the members has 
been with justice ascribed to their temperate habits. Dr. Hosack says, 
that owing to the habitual temperance of the Society of Friends, one- 
half of the members live to the age of 47, and that one in ten lives to 
his eightietli year. The average period of human life he computes at 
33 years, and the proportion of those who live to the age of 80, is one 
to forty. " The zealous and able testimony, which the late eminent 
physician and philanthrophist, Dr. Rush of Philadelphia, bore against 
the use of ardent spirit, ought to be gratefully held in everlasting re- 
membrance, by the friends of the temperance cause. From his out- 
set in life, he never ceased to write and speak against this fell de. 
stroyer of mankind." 



278 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

How many years have elapsed since the retail of ardent spirit was 
confined to the Apothecary's shop? 

What number of gallons of ardent spirit were consumed in the 
United States in 1830? 

Number of habitual drunkards in the United States? 

Number of distilleries in Pennsylvania at one tirael 

Number of paupers in the United States? 

Number reduced to pauperism by intemperance? 

Number of convicts immured in our prisons? 

How many convicts owe their infamy to intemperance? 

Number of insane persons confined in our hospitals? 

Number deprived of their reason by the influence of intoxication? 

Number of Temperance Societies, existing in the United States? 

Number of vessels which navigate the ocean, without the use of 
ardent spirit? 

Number of drunkards reclaimed? 

Number of public houses, which have refused to sell any kind of 
intoxicating liquors? 

What evidence, that the cause of temperance is progressing in Penn- 
sylvania? 

What success has attended the State Temperance Society? 

Can you mention some encouraging facts, in relation to the pros- 
perity of the temperance cause in Pennsylvania? 

What resolution tire the youth requested to make? 

What people first set the example of abstaining from all participa- 
tion of the trade or manufacture of ardent spirit? 

What measures were adopted by William Penn, to prevent the in- 
temperate use of ardent spirit? 

Among what people may it be said, that the first Temperance So- 
ciety existed? 

To what circumstance must be ascribed the longevity, found among 
the Friends? 

What cases can you mention, which show the dreadful effects of 
intemperance? 

We will conclude this subject with three or four facts, suited to 
evince the dreadful effects of intemperance. 

A melancholy scene was exhibited on Saturday at the Police Office. 
It was a mother, brought up on the complaint of her husband, in a 
state of brutal intoxication, charged with an attempt to destroy her 
own infant, about four months old. She had beaten the child's head 
against the bed-post, but the timely arrival of a person, occupying an 
adjoining room, who was alarmed at its outcries, prevented the con- 
summation of her wicked purpose. The father was greatly distressed 
but the mother was too much under the influence of liquor, to be 
made sensible of the horrid crime with which she stood charged. She 
was committed to prison. 

A physcian thus writes. I visited a shantee this morning, occupied 
by Owen Riley, an Irishman, and beheld a scene, which imagination 
can faintly portray, but language fails to express. There lay tJie mur- 
dered wife of Riley; murdered by him, who was under every obhgation 
human and divine, to protect and cherish her; while he, with his own 



EARLY HISTORY. 279 



EARLY HISTORY. 



Interesting and important as this subject is, we can say- 
but little respecting it at this time. Perhaps, at some future 
period, we may give you a concise volume on the history 
of Pennsylvania. 

You are well aware, that William Penn was the chief 
agent in planting the colony of Pennsylvania. He was 
the son of a British admiral, lived in London, was educated 
as a lawyer, and joined the Quakers, then an obscure and 
persecuted sect. 

In 1681, Charles II., king of England, granted to Penn 
a large tract of land on this side of the Atlantic, including 
Pennsylvania and Delaware. In the autumn of the same 
year, numerous emigrants, to whom Penn had sold a part 
of the land, came over to America in three vessels, and 
settled on the Delaware river, near where Philadelphia is 
now located. 

These people brought with them a letter from Penn to 
the Indians, in which he informed them, that the great God 

throat cut, was prostrate on the bed, with his hands and feet bound, to 
prevent his completing the attempted act of suicide, This, said I, is 
the legitimate effect of ardent spirit; and what maker or vender could 
come and witness this scene of horror, and camly say, " I made, and 
sold this man the liquor, which nerved his arm, and steeled his heart 
for the deed." 

Not long since, the only merchant in a certain place, who persisted 
in selling ardent spirit, gave a glass of liquor to his negro man. The 
negro became excited by the liquor, and being displeased with his 
master, took the horrid revenge of murdering him. Thus one glass 
of liquor was the direct means of destroying two human beings, and 
cutting them off from life and usefulness. 

Two men went to the grocery or tavern, and clubbed for something 
to drink. Having drank, and paid for the liquor there were two cents 
to be received in change. The one said, one cent belonged to him, 
and the other denied that it did. From words they came to blows, 
and in the strife, one of them received a mortal wound. The survivor 
i was arrested, and will expiate his crime upon the gallows, or in the 
state prison. In these two instances, ardent spirit, in less quantity 
than a pint, costing less than twelve and a half cents, was the imme- 
diate cause of the destruction of three or four individuals, and of 
plunging at least two families, into wretchedness, and ruin, and una- 
vailng grief. The consequence arising from that small quantity of 
liquor will run on, in all probabiUty, for one, two, or three generations, 
and perhaps they will not cease to be felt till even the fourth shall 
have gone down to its kindred dust. 



280 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

had been pleased to make him concerned in their part of 
the world, and that his king had given him a large tract of 
country therein, bnt that he di I not intend to take posses- 
sion of it without their consent, that he was a man of peace, 
and that the people whom he sent were peaceable too, and 
if any difficulty should occur between them, it might be 
settled by an equal number of men on both sides. 

In the fall of 1682, Penn himself came over with 200 
people. During his stay, he assembled some of the Indian 
chiefs, formed a treated with them, and purchased their land. 
His mild and affable deportment made a most favourable 
impression on the minds of the savages. He walked with 
them, sat with them on the ground, and ate with them of their 
roasted corn and hominy. With this they were greatly de- 
lighted, and to express their joy began to hop and jump. They 
were much pleased with Penn, and long remembered hirii 
with respect and affection. This treaty, which was never 
violated, was made under a great elm tree near Kensington, 
not far from the river. During the ceremony, Penn wore, 
as a mark of distinction, a sash of blue net work. This 
sash still exists in England. 

This memorable tree, called the treaty tree, was blown 
down on the 3d of March, 1812. Many articles have since 
been made of its wood, which are highly prized as relics. 
It was a wide spreading tree, the main branches were 150 
feet in length, the circumference tv/enty-four feet, and the 
age of the tree was 283 years. To perpetuate its memory, 
a rectangular marble monument has been erected, near the 
site where it stood. 

Penn founded the city of Philadelphia in 1682, and in 
1684, he returned to England, leaving the colony in a flour- 
ishing state. The first settlers, however, had many priva- 
tions to endure, and were obliged to live in caves, till they 
were able to erect better dwellings. Most of these habita- 
tions were dug in the side of a high bank, on the east side 
of Front street, and were half below the ground and half 
above. The upper part of the cave was constructed of sods 
and brush wood, and roofed with bark and branches of trees. 
The chimneys were often of grass and kneaded clay. Thej 
ground, on the Delaware where these caves were dug, was] 
very high, and thickly covered with pine trees. 

Pennsylvania had a more rapid growth than either of the' 
other colonies. This was owing partly to a healthy climate, 



EARLY HISTORY. 281 

fruitful soil, abundance of wild game; partly to the benefits, 
which resulted from the experiments made by other colo- 
nists, but chiefly to the religious toleration, mildness and 
justice of its laws, and their administration. Attracted by 
these favourable circumstances, numerous emigrants flocked 
to Pennsylvania, and in four years after the province was 
granted to Penn, it contained twenty settlements and the 
city of Philadelphia 2,000 inhabitants. 

Penn returned to the province in 1699, and found some 
discontent among the people. To remove this, he gave 
them a new charter, which was submitted to the assembly, 
and accepted. But the people, in that part of the settle- 
ment, which now forms the State of Delaware, were dis- 
pleased with the charter, refused to accept of it, were se- 
parated from Pennsylvania, and became a distinct, assembly. 

This was Penn's last visit to America. Returning to 
England soon after, he died there in 1718, having sustained 
a most excellent character. He was persecuted on account 
of his religious principles, accused of wicked conduct, and 
twice imprisoned by order of government. But he nobly 
sustained these trials, lived to see every suspicion wiped 
from his character, and his life teaches us, that " when a 
man's ways please the Lord, he maketh, even his enemies, 
to be at peace with him." 

A tide of prosperity continued to flow into this colony, 
the Indians remained at peace for seventy years, and the 
lasting prosperity of Pennsylvania is an elegant eulogium 
on the character of Penn. 

Who was the chief agent in planting the colony of Pennsylvania? 
For what profession was Penn educated? 
What religious i^ect did Penn join? 

What tract of country was granted to Penn in America? 
By whom? 

In what year did emigrants first come over to settle in Penn's terri- 
tory? 

Where did these emigrants locate themselves? 
Substance of Penn's letter to the Indians? 
In what year did Penn come over? 

For what purpose did Penn assemble some of the Indian chiefs? 
How did Penn conduct himself toward the Indians? 
How were the Indians pleased with Penn? 
Where was the treaty made? 
What do you remember about the treaty tree? 
In what year was Philadelphia founded? 
25 



282 GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 

What were the dwellings of the first settlers? 

How were the habitations of the first settlers constructed"? 

What was the comparative growth of the colony of Pennsylvania'? 

To what circumstances was the rapid growth of Pennsylvania ow- 
ing? 

What number of settlements in Pennsylvania, in four years after 
Penn had received his grant? Number of inhabitants in Philadelphia? 

What part of the colony was displeased with the charter, which 
Penn granted them? Consequence? 

In what year did Penn die? 

How was Penn treated after his return to England? 

How did Penn sustain the trials he met with? 

What does the life of Penn teach? 

How did the colony flourish? 



[21 ] 



the events well selected for an outline. " Pinnock's Greece" will rank in 
point of merit with his former works, and will be valued wherever known. 

February 18, 1836. 

From Wm. Curran, A.B., Principal of a Classical Seminary, Phila. 

Pinnock's improved editions of Goldsmith's " History of England," 
"Greece," and "Rome," are well adapted to the purposes for which tliey 
are designed. The "Outlmes of Sacred History" relate to a subject — the 
knowledge of the sacred Scriptures — which every Christian will rejoice to 
study, and every friend of sound learning and good order will desire to 
see extended through every gradation of society. I look with approbation 
on every attempt which favours this object, and am inchned to believe that 
this little work will prove an auiiliary to the increase of this knowledge 
among youth. Tlie "Scientific Class-book," Parts I. and II., are, in my 
estimation, of so much excellence, with regard to the number of subjects 
introduced, and the manner in which they are treated, as well as the amount 
of matter contained in tliem, that I am decidedly of opinion, they far exceed 
any two works of similar character and for similar purpose that have ever 
fallen under my notice. 

February 16, 1836. 

From S. French, Principal of a Select Boarding-school for Boys, New 
Haven, Connecticut. 

I have given your school-books an examination, from which T get a very 
favourable impression ; the " Scientific Class-book" in particular seems to 
be exactly what was wanted in this department. The tesdmony of their 
excellence attached to them is such as to give us all confidence. I shall, 
doubtless, hereafter use them all in my school. 

February 13, 1836. 
From the Rev. Cooper Mead, D.D., Rector of Trinity Church, Southwark. 
Messrs. Key & Biddle, 

' Gentlemen, — Having examined the " Outlines of Sacred History," intended 
for the use of schools and families, I think the work well calculated to inte- 
rest and instruct those for whom it has been prepared, and especially fitted 
to excite the young to a more careful perusal of the Bible, of which it is a 
valuable epitome. 

February 18, 1836. 

From Mr. Victor Value, Teacher of French, ^c, and Member of the Ex. 
amining Committee of the A. Ass. for supply of Teachers. 

As the choice of suitable text and elementary books comes next to a good 
Bystera of instruction, when we see such works as Pinnock's Goldsmith's 
" Greece," the "Scientific Class-book, Part I. and II." "Outlines of Sacred 
History," lately issued from your press, the friends of education must rank 
you among those who eminently deserve the thanks and patronage of the 
public. 

From C. H. Calhoun, A.M., Tutor William's College. 

Dr. Goldsmith's Historical Works rank high wherever they are known, 
Pinnock's improved edition of the "History of England" 1 have examined, 
and think it well adapted for the use of schools and academies, both as a 
book for reading and study. The improvements of Mr. Pinnock, especially 
in the form of notes, are very valuable. From the little I have examined, 
the improved edition of the "History of Rome," I am inchned to speak as 
favourable of it as of the other. 

From George Hale, A.M., Tutor William's College. 
^ I consider the edition of Pinnock's "Goldsmith's Rome," published by 
Key and Biddle, as superior to any former edition of the work that has 
appeared I am acquainted with no treatise on Algebra, which combines so 
many excellencies as the edition of Bridge's, published by Messrs. Key and 
Biddle. 



[22] 

From Albert Hopkins, A.M., Professor of Mathematics and Natural Pht' 
losophy, William's College. 

A work like the "Scientific Class-book," edited by Professor Johnson, 
has been for some time called for by an increasing taste for science, ana a 
higher siandai'd of popular education. Such works ouglit to meet the popu- 
lar demand, and to elevate still higher the standard of attainment. Both 
these objects, I think, are adequately secured in the present work. I cheer- 
fully recommend it. 

Williamstown, Mass., February 22, 1836. 
From John H. Lathrop, A.M., C.A.S., Professor of Ethics and Political 
JEconomy, Hamilton College. 

It is quite unnecessary to recommend to the readers of history, works 
of such acknowledged merit as Goldsmith's "England," and "Rome." 
You have done a service to the cause of education by bringing out Pin- 
nock's improved edition of these works, in a form designed for students and 
well adapted to their use. 

I think very favourably of the design of the "Scientific Class-book, Part 
I.," and from a brief examination uf its contents, do not hesitate to express 
the opinion that the design has been executed with judgment and abihty. 

From M. Catlin, A.M., Professor of Mathematics, Hamilton College. 

I have examined a volume containing "Guy's Elements of Astronomy" 
and an abridgment of " Keith on the Globes." I rejoice to see works pos- 
sessing so much intriaisic merit as Guy and Keith, presented in so attractive 
a form. I am of-opinion that the volume is well worthy of public patronage, 
and I hope it may be extensively adopted as a text-book for the young. I 
have also examined " Bridge's Algebra." The principles are well arranged 
and illustrated by numerous well selected examples. 

Clinton, N. Y., February 22, 1836. 
From Aaron N. Skinner, Esq., A.M., Principal of a Select Classical School, 
Neic Haven, Co7niecticut. 

After three months' use, I have no hesitation in saying, that I think the 
"Scientific Class-book" the best work with which I am acquainted for 
popular and practical instruction, when the object is to convey useful and 
mteresting information Avithout mathematical demonstrations. Its arrange- 
ment is good, and its plan extensive, embracing almost all the topics of Physi- 
cal Science. The great number of facts, experiments, and illustrations by 
drawings, &c., render it a highly attractive book to the pupil. I cheerfully 
recommend it as the best and most complete work I have seen for what it 
is intended, viz. "A famihar Introduction to the Principles of Physical 
Science." 

Pinnock's "Goldsmith's Rome and England" are improved editions of 
valuable works. From the handsome manner in which your edition is 
executed, I think it will come into general use. 

February 26, 1836. 
From Dr. Keagy, Principal of Friends' Academy, S. Fourth street. 

The " Outlines of Sacredllistory," published by Messrs. Key and Biddle, 
is a well written digest of Bilole History, with the continuation of the Old 
Testament History "from the time of Nehemiah to the advent of Christ, and 
of that of the New Testament, to the destruction of Jerusalem. It is alto- 
gether an excellent epitome, and will be very useful to our youth in giving 
them consistent and comprehensive views of the historical parts of the 
Scriptures. JNO. M. KEAGY. 

Philadelphia, 1836. 

From Rev. Nehemiah Dodge, Principal of Harmony Hall Seminary. 
Messrs. Key & Biddlr, Philadelphia, February 15, 18;36. 

I have examined, with much pleasure, your edition of "Outlines of Sacred 
History." I think it better suited to the younger members of families, and 
also to ihe junior classes in our seminaries, than any other work with which 
I am acquainted in this most important department of education. 

No. 73, South Eight-street. N. DODGE, 



CSS ] 

We fully concur in the opinions above expressed. 



THOS. H. WILSON, 
WM. ALEXANDER, A.M. 
JNO. SIMMONS, 
WILLIAM M'NAIR, 
ED. n. HUBBARD, 
EZ'L. FOUSE, 
REV. WM. MANN, A.M. 
J. MADEIRA, 
J. E. SLACK, 

L. w. Burnet, 

JOHN HASLAM, 
THOMAS EUSTACE, 
JOHN EUSTACE, 
WILLIAM MARRIOTT, 
RIAL LAKE, 
THOS. COLLINS, 
MATTHIAS NUGENT, 
SAML. CLENDENIN, 
JAMES CROWELL, 



W. B. ROSE, 

AUGUSTINE LUDINGTON, 

REV. SAML, W. CRAWFORD, A.M. 

Principal of the Acadl. Dept. of the 
University of Pennsylvania. 
THOS. M'ADAM, 
T. T. AZPELL, 
A. MITCHELL, 
H. MORROW, 
D. R. ASHTON, 
BENJAMIN C. TUCKER. 
ES. LEVY, 

WILLIAM ROBERTS, 
THOS. BALDWIN, 
U. KITCHIN, 
M. L. HURLBERT, 
SHEPHERD A. REEVES, 
NICHOLAS DONNELLY, 
WILLIAM A. GARRIGUES. 
F7-o?n John M. Keagy, 31. D., Professor elect of Dickinson College. 
After an examination of Pinnoclc's edition of "Goldsmith's Greece " and 
the second volume of the " Scientific Class-book,'' 1 feel a pleasure in stating 
that they fully sustain the character given of the prev.ous part of each 
series : the one as a much improved edition of Goldsmith's popular History 
of Greece; and the other as an excellent corapend on the subjects of which 
it treats. The Chemistry and Metallurgy, the Geology, and History of Fos- 
sils, and the sketch of Meteorology of the latter work, are particularly 
clear and comprehensive, to be comprised within the limits of a single 
duodecimo. jNO. M. KEaGy! 

Philadelphia, February 15, 1836. 

Philadelphia, February 15, 1836. 
JVoOT Mr. N. Dodoe, Teacher, S. Eighth street. 
The edition of Pinnock's "History of Greece" on the basis of Gold- 
smith's, is, in my estimation, a work of superior merit. The introductory 
chapters are especially valuable. The body of the work is greatly im- 
proved; and the continuation, though brief, supplies a want greatly felt by 
every reader at the conclusion of the original work of D.". Goldsmith. I 
shall introduce it into my seminary as the best text-book on the subiect. 
„, , ., N. DODGE. 

We fully concur in the opinions above expressed. 

THOS. H. WILSON, AUGUSTINE LUDINGTON, 

WM. ALEXANDER, A.M. REV. SAML. W. CRAWFORD, A.M. 
JNO. SIMMONS, Principal of the Acadl. Dept. of the 

University of Pennsylvania. 
THOS. M'ADAM, 
THOS T. AZPELL, 
A. MITCHELL, 
H. MORROW, 
D. R. ASHTON, 
BENJAMIN C. TUCKER, 
ES. LEVY, 

WILLIAM ROBERTS, 
SAML. J. WILLEY, 
THOS. BALDWIN, 
U. KITCHIN, 
M. L. HURLBERT, 
SHEPHERD A. REEVES, 
EDMUND NEVILLE, 
NICHOLAS DONNELLY, 
WILLIAM A. GARRIGUES. 



WILLIAM M'NAIR, 
ED. H. HUBBARD, 
EZ'L. FOUSE, 
REV. WM. MANN, A.M. 
J. MADEIRA, 
J. E. SLACK, 
L. W. BURNET, 
JOHN HASLAM, 
THOMAS EUSTACE, 
JOHN EUSTACE, 
WILLIAM MARRIOTT, 
RIAL LAKE, 
THOS. COLLINS, 
MATTHIAS NUGENT, 
SAML. CLENDENIN, 
JAMES CROWELL, 
WM, B. ROSE, 



[24] 

From Samuel Jones, M.A, Principal of Classical and Mathemati- 
cal InstiKe, North-east corner of Seventh and Carpenter-streets 
Fkiladelptiia. 

OUTLINES OF SACRED HISTORY, and SACRED HISTORY OF THE 
DELUGE. — The value of tliede two sniali volumes is not to be estimated by 
their size. Whoever admits the sound doctrine so well expounded and 
sustained in the essay of President Colton, that the "Holy Scriptures 
should be considered the only safe and proper basis of an education in the 

Eopular as well as in the true sense, liberal,^' must bid every such contri- 
ution from the press a cordial welcome. They belong to a elass of books 
which 1 am happy to believe are bej^inning to be more correctly appre- 
ciated by parents and teachers, for whose assistance they have been spe- 
cially prepared. In the "Outlines of Sacred History," we have a judicious 
selection of incidents from materials of <ireat variety and extent. The 
nariatives ore comprehensive, well arranged, concise, and at the same time 
lucid : numerous striking poetical quotations, and well designed engravings 
interspersed throughout the volume serve to enliven and embellish it, and 
not the least valuable parts are the CI ronological Index, and the Questions 
at the end. The "nisf<ry of the Deluge" is more elaborate than the 
former, though sufficiently simple in its style and general execution to 
render it intelligiole to cliildren, with the aid of an occasional explanation 
from the teacher. The author has selected for his subject one of those 
grand events in the history of the past, which is not less intimately con- 
nected with science than it is with religion. It is well known how much 
has been done by some sciolists in geology to bring the record of Moses 
into discredit by representing it as irreconcilable with certain phenomena 
in nature. In this work of Mr. Fellowes, sufficient notice is taken of these 
attempts of the skeptical, to make it manifest that they are mainfainea more 
by assumptions, than by arguments; "that Philosophy and revealed Reli- 
gion, when they come upon common ground, go hand in hand." The book, 
though small, evinces much research, and an acquaintance with the works 
of the learned, some of which are scarce, and most of them inaccessible 
to the majority of readers, for whose use this was designed. It is hardly 
pos.sible for the enlightened Christian student to read the fables of hea- 
thenism without recognising benepth a veil of fiction many of the sublime 
trutlis of the "Inspired Scriptures." In the "Sacred History of the De- 
luge," we have a happy exemplification of the use to which these fragments 
of Revelation, disfigured, mutilated, and disguised as they have been by 
tradition, can be applied for the purpose of defending and illustrating the 
truth. As furnishing to children and youth an agreeable, and at the same 
time, profitable occupation for a Sabbath evening's' exercise, these Sacred 
Histories wiU IjC found of great utility ; nor can I doubt that books so well 
adapted to meot the exigencies of the times, will fail of a liberal patronage. 

S. JONES, 
Philadelphia, March 1, 1SS5. No. 17 South Seventh-street. 

From J. G. De Soter, A.M., Professor of French, Spanish, and 
Italian 
Messrs. Key & Biddle, 

GcnUem'^n, — An attentive perusal of the "Scientific Class-hook" has 
convinced me of its steding merit. No elementary work, hitherto pub- 
lished, is better calculated to familiarize the j*.)ung student wih some of the 
most attractive and useful branches of human knovvledse ; and it is to be 
hoped that many a trilling and dull work, now read in schools, will be 
entirely superseded by the use of the Scientific Class-book. 
Goldsmith's Histories of " England, Greece, and Rome," lately published 
J by you, cannot tail to meet with universal apur jbation : indeed, it would be 
I considered as a waste of time to prove the merits of works which have 
already received the sanction of the public ; yet the considerable improve 
8 ments therein introduced by Pinnock, and the great accuracy and neatnea 



C 25 ] 

of the typographical execution, add a new value to these volumes, and 
authorize me conscientiously to recommend them to the patronage of 
parents and conductors of schools. 

I have also examined, with much pleasure, the two little works, entitled, 
"Outlines of Sacred History," and " Sacred Hisiory of the Deluge." 
These cheap and neat volumes, professedly intended for school-books, aro 
certainly well adapted for that purpose. They are executed with great 
cleai-ness and precision ; and present, in a condensed form, the narration 
of facts and events with which every Christian ought to be conversant. 

Philadelphia, March 2, 1836. J. G. DE SOTER, 

Classical and Mathematical Institute, 

From John Collins, Teacher, No. 400 Market-street. 

I have examined the "Scientific Class-book," edited by Walter R. John- 

son, "Pinnock's Abridgement of Goldsmith's Rome," and the "Outlines of 

Sacred History," and think them well calculated to be introduced into our 

public schools and seminaries. 

From Wm. Russell, 31. A., Editor of the first series of the American Jour- 
nal of Education, and Teacher of a Select Female School, Philadelphia. 

"The Outlines of Sacred History," of which you have published a new 
edition, I have found a useful and pleasing book for young pupils, and am 
gratified to learn that its circulation, as a family book, is also extensive. 
Used in conjunction with any of the recent maps of Palestine, it seems well 
adapted to impart clear and accurate ideas of the contents of the sacred 
volume. 

The "Scientific Class-boolc," by Professor Walter R. Johnson, seems to 
furnish a series of manuals such as have long been wanted in all places of 
education in which instruction in physical science is imparted. The First 
Part of this work I have found so well adapted to its objects, that 1 f'ke 
much pleasure in the opportunity of making use of the Second. The same 
judicious selection of subjects, and the same appropriate style seems to 
characterize this part of the work, which impart so peculiar a value to the 
First. 

I am happy to observe that you have been induced to pubhsh Pinnock's 
improved form of " Goldsmith's History of Greece." This work possesses 
the same recommeniations as the corresponding volume of Roman history. 
The style has the pleasing and attractive character of the original writer, 
without his peculiar blemishes; and the matter has been modified, in adap- 
tation to the present state of knowledge, as regards the history and litera- 
ture of Greece. 

The judicious manner in which this and the other volumes of Mr. Pinnoik 
have been compiled, renders them, as far as I can judge, the best adapted 
to their respective purposes. I give them the preference, accordingly, as 
class-books, in my own school, and am happy to learn that they are so exten- 
sively introduced in others. WH^LIAM P%.USSELL, 

92 South Eighth-street. 

From N. S. Dodge, Principal of Yoimg Ladies' Semi7iary, Pittsfield, 
Massachusetts. 

I am well pleased with your editions of " Goldsmith's England and Rome." 
The accuracy and attractive style of these works have always rendered 
them the most popular of histories, and with the improvements of Doctor 
Pinnock, they deserve all the popularity in schools that they have had vsnth 
the reading public. The questions and chronological tables at the ends'of 
the several chapters, and the historical notes and references interspersed 
throughout the works, add greatly to their value as school books. 

From Rev. Professor Dewey. 
To those acquainted with "Bridge's Algebra," it is not necessary that 
any recommendation should be given. So far as it has gained access to the 

c 



[26] 



Bchools in this section of the country, it is highly approved; and, for many 
things, Is decidedly preferred to any of its predecessors- It is certainly an 
excellent system of Algebra. C. DEWEY,. 

I fully concur in Professor Dewey's opinion, N, S. DODGE. 

Frim Rev. C. Dewey, A.M., Professor, Berkshire Gymnasium. 

"Guy on Astronomy" and "Keith on the Globes," have deservedly a high 
reputation as text-books, on those subjects, in academies and higher schools. 

The "Scientific Class-book," by Professor W. R. Johnson, contains a 
great amount of knowledge on the principles of Physical Science, and their 
application to the arts of life, and is well adapted to give instruction on these 
subjects to the older scholars in the higher schools. C. DEWEY. 

I have examined the "Scientific Class-book," and shall give it to an ad- 
vanced class in my school. N. S. DODGE. 

Pitlsfield, Mass., February 26, 1836. 

From Samuel Jones, A.M., Principal of Mathematical and Classical 
Institute. 

The excellent reputation of Dr. Goldsmith's histories is well known. Few 
Dooks for schools have been received by the community, with greater 
favour ; and yet to every discriminating teacher, it has long been manifest 
that they were susceptible of being greatly improved by any hand possessed 
of requisite skill to undertake it. With what success this desirable work 
has been done by the present editor, may be inferred from the. significant 
fact, that one of his revised histories has passed to the twelfth edition in 
Enaland, and another has already reached the twenty-third. In the History 
of Greece, the reputation of the distinguished editor is fully sus'ained. A 
mere glance at the new edition of Pinnock, in connexion with the original 
GolJsmith, is sufficient to exhibit the great superiority of the former. Be- 
side the correction of material errors, and the supplying of important 
omissions, in the present work we have the instructive introductory chapter 
from Professor Heeren, and the sketch of modern history at the end, by 
which its value is greatly enhanced. I cannot doubt that Pinnock's "His- 
tory of Greece" will receive a similar welcome with its predecessors from 
the same improving pen, and that the publishers will have increasing evi- 
dence that, in " bringing out" this work, they have not less consulted tlie 
public taste, than thepublic exingencies. S. .TONES, 

February, 1836. No. 17 South Seventh-street. 

From Farrand N. Benedict, A.M., Professor of Mathematics and Civil 
E7igineering, University of Vermont. 
Gentlemen, — ^I have examined your edition of " Bridge's Algebra," and am 
pleased with its lucid arrangement and well selected examples. In these 
respects, particularly important to the young student, I think it will be found 
a valuable introduction to that department of mathematics. 

FARRAND N. BENEDICT. 
Burlington, March 2, 1836. 

From D. D. Whedon, A.M., Professor of Ancient Languages, Wesieyan 
University, Middletown, Ct. 

" Pinnock's Goldsmith's England" I consider to be an improved edition 
of a standard little work. 

" Pinnock's Goldsmith's Rome" appears to me to be admirably calculated 
for its intended purposes. Uniting the results of the researches of Niebuhr 
■with the production of the classic pen of Goldsmith, it furnishes, perhaps, 
the best manual extant for the popular reader and junior student of Roman 
history. 



[ 27 ] 

From Isaac Webb, Esq., A.M., Principal of a Select Boarding-school for 
Boys. 

I esteem your edition of "Pinnock's Goldsmith's History of England" as 
entirely worthy of a liberal public patronage. I have liardly an ejcpectatiou 
of ever meeting with a better history of England in the same compass ; and 
your part of its execution deserves commendation. 

Middletown, Conn., 1836. 

From Augustus W. Smith. A.M., Professor of Natural Philosophy and 
Mathematics, Wesleyan University, Middlttown, Conn. 

An examination of the "Scientific Class-book, Part I." published by you, 
has left a very favourable impression. Of the excellencies of this work, 
there is one which establishes its claim to public favour, and will most cer- 
tainly secure for it a speedy triumph over works of similar grade and pre- 
tensions. I allude to the introduction of many scientific facts and principles 
which have hitherto43een buried in the voluminous and inaccessible records 
of learned societies, or are of too recent developement to have been earlisr 
imbodied in any popular work. It appears to me to be one of the very few 
popular scientific works which are not dignified by their title, and one of 
the still smaller class which possess the merits of a public benefaction. 

March 17, 1835. AUGUSTUS W. SMITH. 

From Isaac Webb, Esq., A.M. 

I fully concur in the opinion of the " Scientific Class-book, Parti." as 
expressed by Profes.sor Smith. ISAAC WEBB. 

I have, from an examination, formed a high estimate of the value of your 
edition of " Pinnock's Goldsmith's History of Rome." The introductory por- 
tion, enriched as it is with the results of modern investigations, especially 
Niebuhr's, I consider an important improvement of Goldsmith's original 
work. 

Accept my cordial wishes that you may be liberally rewarded for your 
laudable efforts to furnish the community with proper school-books, prO' 
perly executed. ISAAC WEBB. 

"Guy's Astronomy" is a work of known and established merit ; and your 
edition of it, embracing also an abridgement of "Keith on the Globes," is 
superior to any popular work on tlie subject of Astronomy with which I am 
acquainted. The style and finish of the numei-ous plates, too, are espe- 
cially worthy of note. Those instructors who shall make a faithful trial of 
it, will, I am confident, award to it their strong approbation. 

ISAAC WEBB. 

"OuTLTNES OF Sacred History."— A Very interesting work, wr^U adapted 
to answer the end designed. Illustrated with numerous wood cuts, and 
enriched with poetic description, its arrangement seems admirably calcu- 
lated to impress upon the rising generation the interesfin;; facts of sacred 
history. In this little volume, kings, warriors, judges, shej)herd3, and tribes 
pass before us in succession ; and while we read their history, we almost 
seem to groan under their bondage, or exult in their liberty. Sir Isaac 
Newton said, " There is no philosophy like that taught in the Bible ;" and 
truly we may say, there is no history of any nation or of any age that will 
bear comparison with that recorded on its sacred page : and I deem every 
effort to bring it before our famihes and the rising generation as vrorthy of 
praise ; and when done with the taste and order exliibited in these Outlines, 
as deserving extensive patronage. WILLIAM SUDDARDS, 

Rector of Grace Church, Philad. 

FromJ.WIntyre, Teacher, Philadelphia. 

In facts, well authenticated and v/ell selected, the " Scientific Class-book" 

is very rich. Hypothesis and fa,ct are often, and with manifest intention, 

preserved distinct. Data are stated, conclusions drawn, and theories 

weighed, with much accuracy and ability. As a popular introduction to the 



[28] 



sciences of which it treats, it is well fitted. I certainly have seen no work 
of the kind so good. 

Pinnock's edition of Goldsmith's Roman History is a very valuable work. 
The introduction may be selected as a part wisely designed and skilfully 
executed. The topographical descriptions are faithful ; the most prominent 
features are chosen, and correctly portrayed. The style is pure, perspicu- 
ous, and pleasing, without much figurative decoration. The history may 
be justly commended. J. M-INTYKE. 

Pine-street, March 16, 1836. 

Extract from a Report made to the Lyceum of Teachers, of Philadelphia. 
Your Committee are of opinion that the book (Scientific Class-book) in 
question is, in almost every respect, superior to the books now in use, on 
the subjects it embraces. They submit the follov/ing reasons as the ground 
of their preference: — 1. The diflferent subjects are presented to the student 
in such a manner, that, without some effort on his part, he cannot under- 
stand them ; but with that effort, he is richly rewarded with an ample fund 
of valuable facts, arranged, explained, and classed in accordance with the 
recent improvements in physical science. 2. At the lOot of each page tl^e 
editor has introduced a few questions so judiciously, as to induce the inlpor- 
tant habit of attention and reflection, without wfeich, to answer tbem would 
be impossible ; thus affording one of the best tests of the actual amount of 
acquirement v^liich the student has made. 3. The work never seems to 
lose sight of the great importance of making all science subservient to the 
happiness of man. This, it appears to your Committee, it has done in a high 
degree, by showing to what a areat extent the successful prosecution of the 
arts depends on science. 4. The editor appears to have spared no pains in 
the effort not only to render the work in a high degree instructive, but at the 
same time to iiitroduce such interesting (because practical) illustrations, as 
to make it a very pleasant book for those for wliom it was designpri 
conclusion, your (Committee have seldom seen a work, intended fc i, 

in which IKere is so little to regret and so much to approve, as Uiai, «uumii- 
ted as the subject of this report. 

After a cursory examination of the " Outlines of Sacred History," I can 
cheerfully recommend it as admirably adapted to the wants of those families 
who have long desired an elementary work, literary and rehgious, which 
might be studied on the Sabbath-day with propriety and intexest, as pre- 
paratory to the recitations of the following morning. While it should be 
regarded as a valuable Sabbath-school book, it will be found to be specially 
useful in common schools, and even interesting and edifying to persons of 
mature age, as a book of reference. J. LYBRANI). 

From N. Dodge, A.M., Member of the Examining Committee of theAme. 
rican Association fur supply of Teachers. 
I have examined with as much care as my leisure would permit your 
"Scientific Class-book, Part II.," and shall introduce it into my seminary as 
a text-book, for the subjects of science which it embraces. I am fully con- 
vinced, that the scientific course presented in these vokmies, is decidedly 
superior in systematic form, as well as compass, to any extant in the Enghsh 
language. 

The "Sacred History of the Deluge" will doubtless be perused by those 
who have not access to any thing more complete, with profit. 

N. DODGE, 
Principal of Hai-mony Hall Female Seminary. 

From Bartram Kaighn. 

I have examined Pinnock's "Goldsmith's Rome," "Greece and Eng. 
land," the "Scientific Class-book," "Bridge's Algebra," and the "Sacred 
History ;" and I confidently say that they are admirably calculated to afford 
the student a rich store of knowledge, and arranged in such a manner as to 
render those studies interesting to the learner. 

Philadelphia, 2d mo., 25th, 1836. 



[29] 
SACRED HISTORY OF THE DELUGE ; 

ILLUSTRATED AND CORROBORATED BY 

TRADITION, MYTHOLOGY AND GEOLOGY, 

ADAPTED 

TO COURSES OF SCRIPTUKE STUDY IN COLLEGES XWD HIGHER 

SEMllVARIES, AIXD TO GENERAL USE. 

BY FRANCIS FELLOWES, A.M. 

JS&it]) an KntroUuctorg 3letter, 

BY REV. CHAUNCEY COLTON, D.D., 

PRESIDENT OP BRISTOL COLLEGE. 



Messrs. Key & Biddle,— March 25, 1836. 

It is with pleasure 1 bear testimony to the merits of the " Sacred History 
of the Deluge," by Francis Fellowes, A.M. To the Christian teacher, and 
Christian parent, it will be valuible as an auxiliary to the study of the Bible. 
President Cotton's essay should be attentively read by all who have charge 
of our own institutions of learning. 

Respectfully yours, J. H. BROWN, 

. ColumbiaAcademy,No.52 Cherry-street, Philadelphia. 

The "Sacred History of the Dehige," by Mr. Fellowes, is a work con- 
taining a great many useful and appropriate remarks, on that most curious 
and interesting catastrophe. 

Its value is also enhanced by the very clear and able introduction of the 
Rev. Dr. Colton, on the study of Biblical literature. His views are well 
adapted to excite and increase the taste for the study of the sacred Scrip- 
tures, both in our own and the original languages. With these sentiments, 



I can cordially recommend the work. 
March 25, 1836. 
We concur in the above. 
JOHN STEEI,, 
BENJ. C. TUCKER, 
WILLIAM ALEXANDER, A.M. 
Rev. SAML. W. CRAWFORD, 

A.M., Principal of the Acadl. 

Dept. of the University of 

Pennsylvania. 
THOS. M'ADAM, 
ARCHIBALD MITCHELL, 
WM. MANN, 
L. W. BURNET. 
WILL1.A.M .M'NAIR, 
THOS. T. AZPELL, 
BARTRAM KAIGNH, 
M. SEMPLE, .1r. 
EDWARD H. HUBBARD, 
H. REEVES, 
HENRY BILL, 

HENRY LONGSTRETH, A.M. 
C. K. FROST, 
JOHN STOCKDALE, 
THO;S. COLLINS, 
JNO SIMMONS, 
JAMES CROWELL, 
SETH SMITH, 



JNO. M. KEAGY. 



THOMAS EUSTACE, 

N. DODGE, 

J. B. WALKER, 

V. VALUE, 

JOHN EirST^CE, 

AUGUSTINE LUDINGTON, 

SAMUEL CLENDENIN, 

M. L. HURLHURT, 

J. W. ROBERTS, 

WILLIAM MARRIOTT, 

THOMAS CONARD, 

R. W. CU.«HMAN, 

BENJAMIN MAYO, 

WM. A. GARRIGUES, 

M. SOULE, 

U. KITCHIN, 

DANIEL MAGENIS, Teacher of 

Elocution. 
ANDREW STEVENSON, 
DANIEL FULLER, 
T. M. LUBBREN, 
JAMES E. SLACK, 
WM. ROBERTS, 
E. NEVILLE, 
RICH. O.H. LOVETT; 



C 30 ] 

Prom Professor E. A. Andrews, A.M., Principal of Mount Vernon Insti' 

tuiefor Young Ladies, Boston, Mass., Author of a Latin Grammar, ^c. 

Your editions of Pinnock's Goldsmith's "England and Rome," are 
decidedly the very best editions that 1 have seen of those very popular 
school l)ooks. The first pai^t of the "Scientific Class-book" (the only part 
which I have yet seen) appears to me well adapted to the wants of schools, 
and higher seminaries ; and in regard to " Bridge's Algebra," I cannot bet- 
ter express my views, than by saying, that 1 should cheerfully subscribe to 
the opinion given of it by Professor Adrain. 

From Col. James M. Porter, President of Board of Trustees, Lafayette 
College, Easton, Northampton Co., Pennsylvania. 

I have examined and partially read the " Outlines of Sacred History," 
intended for the use of schools, and the " Sacred History of the Deluge" 
illustrated, and have regretted that my other avocations have heretofore 
prevented a critical and closer perusal of them. As far as I have examined 
them, I am much pleased both with the manner and malcer of them, and 
think the former well adapted to promote a correct knowledge of the his- 
torical part of the Bible in continu^'us order, and the latter an excellent 
illustration of the truth oi the Senpture History of the Deluge, and of its 
causes and consequences. The introductory essay to the latter work on 
the study of the Scriptures as a part of liberal education, is worthy of the 
attention of all connected with the business of education. Both the works 
in question are important in the points of view in which he places the 
sulject. 

1 have examined Pinnock's Goldsmith's " Greece," his " Rome," and hia 
"England," and have much pleasure in adding my testimony to that of the 
numerous gentlemen who have testified to their excellence and usefulness. 
I esteem them as most valuable works for instructing youth in the histories 
of those countries, and as volumes to which older persons may turn with 
pleasure and with profit. I know of no other historical works equal to 
them for the use of sonools. 

In this age wherein utility is the true test of value of publications, " the 
Scientific Class-book" must meet with public favour, because it so fully 
deserves it. I would recommend it for use in schools, as admirably adapted 
for the purpose of instructing youth in the principles of the physical 
sciences; and master mechanics would advance their own interests and 
promote the knowledge of tlieir apprentices, and consequently the value of 
their services, by placing the work in their hands for perusal; for "every 
mechanic art is the reduction to practice of scientific principles," and the 
better the principles are understood, the more perfect will be that reduc- 
tion to practice. J. M. PORTER. 

Easton, Pa., Aprils, l^&. 

Fro7n Rev. Jno. Forsyth, Pastor of Reformed Presbyterian Church. 

The cursory examination which I have been able to give to your "Out- 
lines of Sacred History," has led me to form a favourable opinion of the 
work. 

With the design of it I am particularly well pleased ; a well executed 
work of the kind has been long needed for our common schools, and it 
would afford me much pleasure to learn that these Outlines have been 
introduced into them. The desideratum is in a good degree supplied by 
tills publication. 

I can only say, in conclusion, that I trust the patronage you will receive 
may be such as to induce you speedily to emit a second revised and enlarged 
edition. 

Philadelphia, March 13, 1S36. 

From Mr. Cleanihes Fdt, M.A. 

I have carefully examined the second part of "the Scientific Class-book," 
and it appears to me to deserve the patronage of tliose concerned in the 
education of youth. It is, indeed, in my opinion, the very book so long 
needed ; I, therefore, cheerfully recoimnend it to parents, guardians, and 
teachers throughout the United States. 



[31 ] 



Your Pinnock'g Goldsmith's " History of Greece," is, I think, an excel- 
lent work to be placed in the hands of youth. 

Your " Sacred History" also, I consider a choice book, and well worth 
the perusal b.>lh of the old and the young. It contains a concise account 
of all the principal facts recorded in sacred writ ; a kuowleooe of which 
must prove useful to the rising generation. C FELT. 

Gentlemen,— I state with pleasure, that 1 have introduced into my semi- 
nary for young ladies, your improved edition of Pinnock's Goldsmith's 
" Greece, Rome, and England," and do not hesitate to recommend them as 
admirably calculated to promote the object of the author. 

Philadelphia, March 15, ISBG, MRS. R. BRYANT. 

From B. Mayo, Teacher, Philadelphia. 

I have perused pretty generally, with much satisfaction, Pinnock's Gold- 
smith's Histories of "Greece and Rome." I consider them a decided 
improvement in the department for which they are intended, and as fully 
embracing tlie principal objects of sohcitude, in the selection of class read- 
ing-books, viz. correctness and intelligence. For correctness, they may, 
with confidence, be introduced to the English reader; and their intelligence 
is well imbodied through the work, free from that worst of all plagues, 
circumlocution. Too much care cannot be taken in the selection of read- 
ing books lor classes, as by early impressions the style of reading and 
speaking is generally formed. There is no danger of forming a bad style 
from the works in question. B. M. 

Fro7n Rev. Geo. Ditffield, Pastor of Fifth Presbyterian Church, Arch-street. 

At your request, gentlemen, I have examined the " Outlines of Sacred 
History," recently published by you, and think it well adapted for the use 
of schools and families. As a class-book, in the former, or for familiar 
instruction in the latter, it will prove a valuable addition to the numeroug 
works already printed, designed to facilitate the religious education of 
youth. The engravings give it an attractiveness to the youngest, while the 
interesting facts and perspicuous style, render it worthy the notice of per- 
sons of maturer years. To hear that it finds favour with teachers, and is 
generally introduced into primary schools as a book for exercises in read- 
ing, will be pleasing to 

Yours, &c. GEORGE DUFFIELU. 

Philadelphia, Marcji 14, 1836. 

From Charles Dexter Cleveland, M.A., Principal of Female l^^eminary. 

After a careful examination of the " Outlines of Sacred History," re- 
cently published by you, I have introduced it into my school, v/hich I should 
not do, of course, did it not meet with my entire approbation. 

Philadelphia, May 3, 1S36. C. D. CLEVELAND. 

Messrs. Key & Biddle, — 

The little volume entitled "Outlines of Sacred History," lately published 
by you on the same liberal plan as the many excellent books which have 
been published by the American Sunday-school Union, is a valuable pro- 
duction in this important kind of literature. .The comprehensive brevity 
of the work, its division into short chapters, the plain and simple style in 
which it is written, the short comments and arguments occasionally inter- 
spersed through the narrative, and the excellency of the subject-matter, 
all combine to render it worthy of a place in every library designed for 
the use of children. Very respectfully yours, 

Philadelphia, March 19, 1836. T. G. POTTS. 

Messrs. Key & Biddle, — 

The " Sacred History of the Deluge, illustrated and corroborated by tra- 
dition, mytholosy, and geology," lately published by you, must, I think, 
commend itself to all Christian parents and teachers of youth, as a trea- 
tise of no little merit. While it is free from vain speculation, it is full of 
undeniable truth ; it imbodies a wide range of thought, and presents a most 
instructive and impressive lesson in morality. The mind that can read it 
through without advantage must indeed either be well endued with morals, 
or in very great need of improvement. 

May 6, 1S36. Very respectfully yours, T. G. POTTS. 



[32] 

AN ETYMOLOGICAL DICTIONARY OF THE 
ENGLISH LANGUAGE, 

ON A PLAK ENTIRELT NEW. 

BY JOHN OSWALD, 

Author of t!ie " Etymological Manual of English Language,^' and " Outlines of English 
Grammar." 

EEVISBD AND ISIPROVED, AND ESPECIALLY ADAPTED TO THE PHRPOSE OP 
TEACHING ENGLISH COMPOSITION IN SCHOOLS AND ACADEMIES. 

BY J. M. KEAGY. 



Messrs. Key & Biddle, — 

Gentlemen :— In republishing "Oswald's Etyraological Dictionary," en- 
riched as it is by the sensible and well written "Introduction" of Dr. 
Eeagy, you liave done a real service to the cause of sound, education. It is 
the best work of the kind (designed for schjDols) that I have yet seen, and 
it must have an extensive circulation. For in every well regulated school 
tauoht by competent masters, etymology will form a prominent branch of 
study as long as there is an inseparable connexion between clearness of 
thought, ancTa correct use of language. 

Yours respectfully, C. D. CLEVELAND. 

We fully concur in the above. 

J. M'lNTYRE, SAMUEL CLENDENIN, 

JAMES B. ESPY, E. FOUSE, 

JNO. SIMMONS, THOMAS CONARD, 

B. W. BLACKWOOD, HENRY BILL. 

E. H. KUBB^IRD, THOMAS BALDWIN, 

E. NEVILLE, U. KITCHEN, 

F. M. LUBBREN, DANIEL MAGINIS, 
WM. A. GARRIGQES, JOHN EVANS, 
VHLLTAM MARRIOTT, JOSEPH P. ENGLES, 
RIAL LAKE, J. W. ROBERTS, 
THOS. T. AZPELL, BARTRAM KAIGN, 
A. MITCHELL, JNO. D. GRISCOM, 
CHARLES MEAD, ARCHIBALD O. Pv. L0\'F:TT, 
WM. MANN, AUGUSTINE LUDINGTON, 
WILLIAM M'NAIR, WM. B. ROSE, 

TOHN STEEL, NICHOLAS DONNELLY, 

BENJAMIN MAYO, C. R. FROST, 

JOHN HASLAiM, V^LLL^M ALEXANDER, A.M. 

CHAS. HENRY ALDEN, M. SOULE, 

THOMiVS EUSTACE, J. KAPP, 

W. CURRAN, JOHN STOCKDALE, 

BENJAMIN TUCKER, Rev. SAML. W CRAWORD, A.M. 

M. L. HURLBUT, Principal of the Acadl. Dept. of the 

T. G. POTTS, University of Pennsylvania. 

CHARLES ATHERTON, THOMAS H. WILSON, 

HENRY LONGSTRETH,A.M. THOMAS M'ADAM. 
Fr(y)n Mr. William Russell, A.M., author of an Abridgment of Adarns' 
Latin Grammar, Teacher, ^c. 
Oswald's "Etymological Dictionary," revised by Dr. Keagy, is a work 
which will be found invaluable in all schools in which attention is paid to 
the systematic study of the English language. The plan and arrangement 
of this manual are such as to bring under a single glance the etymology 
of all cognate terms, in addition to that of the particular word which hap; 
pens to occur in any instance ; and the extent to which tkis classification 



[33] 

is carried, enables the student to command a survey, as it werejof the 
capabilities of our language, in the expression of whole classes of ideas. 
Oswald's Etymological Dictionary possesses, in this respect, an advantage 
over oiher works of its class ; as most of these are restricted to a mere 
alphabetic arrangement of words, in consequence of which, it Ijecomes 
exceedingly difficult to obtain a complete view ol any series of derivations. 
I a)ii happy to have the opportunity of introducing th". Dictionary in my 
school, as I shall find it a useful substitute for oral instruction, in parsing 
lessons, both in Latin and English ; having ijeen accustomed to require a 
statement of the derivation or composition of every w^rd in such lessons 
before that of its inflection or other variations. The use of this work will 
not, therefore, cause me any extra arrangement of classes, while it will be 
of equal assistance to my pupils and myself. Other teachers may find it 
convenient to introduce the book in the same or a similar way. The merits 
of the work itself, however, are such as to render it conducive, in the 
highest degree, to all purposes of instruction connected with language ; 
and 1 have no doubt that it will be adopted in all schools in which an accu- 
rate knowledge of etymology is deemed important. Dr. Keagy's prelimi- 
nary essay a the forms of "thought as giving origin to those j> ext '-ession, 
will greatly enhance V.ie value of the work to all teachers who jpiace any 
reliance on the philosophy of instruction. WJVI. RUSSELL. 

No. 92 South 8th street, Phila. 

Prom Mr. J. H. Brown, Teacher, Philadelphia. 

The "Etymological Dictionary" of Oswald, needs no commendation 
when it is known that its merits have been such as to induce Dr. J. M. 
Keasy to revise and improve it for the use of schools and academies. 

Tlie merits of the work will bear testimony in favour of the ability of 
Mr. Oswald for the present undertakiug ; while the extensive philological 
researches of Dr. Keagy, his devotion to tlie cause of education, particu 
larly to the study of language, and his success as a teacher, leave no room 
to doubt the merit and utility of the present work. 

mo one aiming lo make himself master of the English language, should 
be without a copy of the present work, for daily examination and reference. 

J. H. BEOWN, 

May 16. 1836. No.. 52 Cherry-street. 

"The Etymological Dictionary by Dr. Keagy on the basis of Oswald,'' 
appears to me happily adap?jd to remove many of the difficulties with 
which youth have to contsnd in their earlier attempts at comsjosition. 
Thuse who have had the slightest experience in teaching, must be aware 
how utterly inadequate our ordinary dictionaries are to the wants of the 
pupil ; and even were his judgment sufficiently matured to make the neces- 
sary discrimination, the time requisite for searchmg the larger dictionary, 
could not well be spared from other studies. While the work, however, 
presents many important advantages to tne learner, it proposes neither 
to supersede the exercise of his judgment, nor to secure in every instance a 
just ayjplication of the language witiiout labour and care. From the ease 
with which reference is made to principles, in the arranging of the worfls 
according to their genera, thereby enabling the pupil to acqufre the signifi- 
cation of a whole class of words with comparative ease ; and in the facili 
ties afforded to the mere English scholar for obtaining a radical acquaint- 
ance with his owii language, the Etymological Dictionary offers decided 
advantages to the pupTl, and must prove a valuable auxiliary to the 
teacher. JAIVIES GOODFELLOW, 

Teacher, Sunsoni-streei. 
Prom Messrs. Calvin Tracy, A.M., and C. G Burnliam, A.M. 

We have examined carefully Pinnock's improved edition of Goldsmiths' 
Histories of " Greece, Rome, and England," and hesitate not to say that 
they possess uncommon merit. Correct historical information is happily 
combined with simplicity of style and purity of language. We cordially 
recommend them to the attention of teachers, as volumes calculated to 
inspire students with a deep interest in the study of history. 

Also " Outlines of Sacred History," and " the Sacred History of the De- 
luge." These we have also examined, and are fully satisfied of their dis- 



[34] 



Anguished merit. The former presents, in a small compass, the principal 
events recorded by the sacred historians, together witii other circumstantes 
connecled with the history of the Bible, in a natural and pleasing style. 
With th3 help of the numonus engravings, it is admirably calculated to 
interest the minds of children and youth ; to leave clear and distinct im- 
pressions of the events narrated, and to mspire a thirst for a more intimate 
acquaintance with the sacred volume. 

'^Tiie Scientific Class-book." We have examined this work with no 
si^all degree of satisfaction, and think it admirably adapted to the wants 
of schools and acadeuMes. A philosophical treatise, in which the princi- 

{)les of physical science are explained in an easy and familiar style, has 
ong been needed ; and we are prepared to say, that we have nowhere 
found this so happily accomplished as in the " Scientific Class-book." It is 
replete with interest. 

" Guy's Astnmomy," and " Keith on the Globes," combined in a neat and 
attractive volume, should be placed in the hands of every scholar, desirous 
of obtaining, in a small compass, a large quantity of valuable information. 
It has many very commendable qualities. We very cheerfully recommend 
it to teachers. We would also recommend to their notice " Bridge's Alge- 
bra." The principles of this abstract science are here fully and clearly- 
exhibited. 

" The New American Speaker." A valuable work for students, contain- 
ing a variety of pieces designed to call forth and regulate the powers of the 
voice. The selections have been made with much care an 1 judgment. 

" L-'Abeille pour les Enfans." The styls of this work is easy and simple ; 
the fables are interesting and instructive, rendering it a valuable work for 
such as are commencing the study of the French language. 

C. TRACY, 
Principal of New Brunswick Female Academy. 
ATay 13, 1836. C. G. BURNILA.M, 

Principal of the Rahway Female Seminary. 

Prom Professor Griscmn, late of New York. 

"Outlines of Sacred History."— We have looked tVirough this neat little 
volume with unmingled satisfaction. The events recorded in Ih'? Holy 
Scriptures, infinitely surpassing all other historical occurrences in their 
importance to the present and future races of mankind, because they are 
essentially interwoven with those vast ameliorations wnich Christianity 
has introduced into the worlil, and is propagating throughout the civilized 
and even the heathen world, are too seldom impressed upon the minds of 
youth in such a manner as to render the knowledge of them clear, cohe- 
rent, and inviting. The Bible maybe given to children as a task, and 
questi(ms upon it be correctly answered ; but without some such a connected 
and well written statement of the consecutive events of Jewish prophetic 
and apostolic histories as this little book contains, the facts of the Bible, 
involved as they are with so much ceremonial illustration,— sublime, poetical 
description, — ^levotional exhortation and preceptorial instruction, will be 
diveslfid of much of that attraction to ordinary minds, which, as matters 
of sacred h/'sLonj, they actually possess. These outlines are divided into 
fifty-seven short chapters. The style, though plain, is animated and po- 
lished, and each chapter it preceded by a poetical extract so well extracted 
that young people would do well to commit them to memory. A chronolo- 
gical table and a few question*' on each chapter for the purpose of recita- 
tion, t«^rminate a volume, which it would be well, we are persuaded, to intro- 
duce generally into common and Sabbath-schools. 
From the Catskill Recorder. 

AVe have three or four works lately published by Key and Biddle, of 
Phi:-idelphia. Among these we are pleased to see an improved edition of 
" Bridge's Alsebra." The publishers have done essential service to the 
cause of education, by giving the pi;blic an a^ebra in so cheap a form, and 
with so large an amount of well selected and well arranged matter. We 
are pleased to see Goldsmith's " England and Rome" enlarged, corrected 
and improved. Mr. Pinnock, the editor, has appended to each chapter 



[35 J 



appropriate questions. We would highly recommend these works as ad- 
mirably adapted to our schools and academies. 

It is understood that these gentlemen have in contemplation a series of 
texl-lKioks for our schools and colleges. They have thus far spared no 
pains nor expense in obtaining the assistance of the mi.>sl learned and able 
men. Several works are already in a course of preparation by the most 
distinguished, scientific and literary men in our country. It is believed 
that the a])i]ity with which they will be prepared, will commend them to 
the instracters of our youth as valuable text-books. We heartily wish 
these gentlemen success in their efTlirts to combine the talent and learning 
of tlie country, for the purpose of diffusing knowledge in a condensed ana 
popular form throughout the community. 



MANUAL OF CLASSICAL LITERATURE. 

FROM THE GERMAN OF J. J. ESCHENBURG, 
Professor in the Carolinum at Brunswick. 

WITH ADDITIONS, BY N. W. FISKE, 

Professor gf the Latin and Greek Languages in Amherst College, 



The Publishers having handed a copy of the above work to the Rev. Dr. 
Wylie for examination, have the pleasure- of laying before the puljlic has 
views of its value. They hope very soon to add many more testimonials 
of the same high character. 

Messrs. Key & Biddle, — 

Gentlemen .-—At your request T have examined the " Manual of Classical 
Lilerature.from the German of J. J. Eschenburg, Professor in the Caroli' 
num at BrunsiPick, with additions," and am prepared to state, without 
reserve, that I consider it the best assistant to the classical student of all 
the works of the kind that have ever met my eye. It outi^.t to be in the 
hrinds, not only of everj^ tyro in the commencement of his'classical career, 
but should find a place in the library of every lover of Grecian and Roman 
literature. It is a most valuable acquisition to the academies and colleges 
of our country. WUn great pleasure I recommend it to the patronage of a 
liberal public. Very respectfully, 

Gentlemen, yours, &c. SAML. B. WYLIE, 

University, May 25, ia36. Vice Provost of the University of Penn. 

We cheerfully concur in the above opinion cf Doctor Wylie. 

JOHN FROST, 
,, , „ WILLIAM RUSSELL. 

Mjecsrs. Key & Biddle,— 

Gentlemen :— I. hsLve examined the "Manual of Classical Literature. 
from the German of Eschenburg, with additions by Professor Fiske," and 
am convinced that it is a work of great merit, and admirably adapted to 
supply th'e want, long felt by classical tea«chers and scholars, of a cumpre- 
hensive text-book in the department of classical literature and antiqui- 
ties. The great amount and variety of information it contains on the sub- 
jects of Grecian and Roman literature and arts, mytliolosy, and amiqui- 
ties, judiciously arranged and reduced to a uniform method;,~the classical 
celebrity of its author, together with the many valuable additions made by 
Prolossor Fiske, render it worthy of being extensively used as a text-book 
in the study of the classics, as well as a book of reference to the general 
«'c^".^?/-, _. „^ „^ ,^^ J. B. WALKER. 

Philadelphia, May 26, 1836. 



[38] 

The following extracts are from a critical notice of the " Manual,'* puh 
lished in the Biblical Repository, Andover, Mass. 

" Eschenburg's Manual of Classical Literature'' has lon§ had a high 
reputation in Europe, having gone through seven or eiglit editions in Ger- 
man, and one in a French translation. Tlae author zealously extended a 
taste for English literature in Germany, having translated tlie works of 
Burney, Shaiispeare, &c. -Among his publications, the one now first pre- 
sented to the American public, and which has been adopted as the basis of 
public and private instruction in the major part of the colleges and uni- 
versities in Germany, is designed to form a complete manual of the most 
essential aids in reading the classical authors. The matter, in the Ameri- 
can dress, is arranged under five parts, or lieads: — Parti. Archseology of 
Literature and Art. Part II. History of Ancient Literature, Greek and 
Roman. Part III. Mythology of tlie Greeks and Romans. Part IV. G«reek 
and Roman Antiquities. Part V. Classical Geography and Chronology. 
The volume is divided into about 600 paragraphs, for the sake of convenient 
reference. These are printed in a larger" type, and are for the most part a 
translation from Esclienburg. Inserted between many of these paragraphs 
are a large number of refei-ences, explanatory remarks, illustrations, &c., 
nearly all from the pen of tlie translator. In these additions. Professor 
Fiske has rendered more complete the great design of the work, in that 
which constitutes its peculiarity, and distinguishes It from other works in 
the language. 

As to'" the need of such a work as this of Eschenburg, there can be but 
one opinion. Some valuable detached sources of information may be 
found, like Potter's Anticjuities; but no comprehensive, copious, and at the 
same time select and discriminating manual on tlie subject has been within 
the reach of the mass of students. The statement of the contents of the work 
of Eschenburg just given, will furnish some idea of the comprehensive nature, 
as well as the scientific arrangement oT the topics ; both of which are charac- 
teristic of the volume. The number of works referred to, the various 
sources and materials for further illr.stration and investigation, are very 
great. While these will not impede the progress of the young student, being 
for the most part thrown into a small and separate type, tiiey will furnish 
the advanced scholar clues and hints for more extended a'nl profound 
research. The references are not merely to German works, hut to English 

Publications, and frequently to important articles in our periodical Reviews, 
'he manner in which the translator has executed his work needs no com- 
mendation from us. To an acquaintance with the German language, he adds 
the practical experience derived from the many years in which he has been 
employed in classical instruction in two of our principal colleges. The 
volume will find a place in our college text books ; in our academies and 
higher schools ; and in many private libraries, it will fill the same place in 
classical literature which the works of Jahn do in biblical. A part of the 
translation is by Professor Cruse, late of the University of Pennsylvania ; 
and Part V. is not the original German. 

Prom Nehemiah Dodge, A.M., Member of the Exanmting Committee of the 
American Association for the Supphj of Teachers. 
The publication of the " Manual of Classical Literature" is a service for 
which every classical scholar and student who may enjoy the use of a copy 
will sincerely thank you. It presents a storehouse of just such knowledge 
as the ingenuous student wishes to acquire, while studying the Greek and 
Roman languages ; and also such as the ripe scholar may read or consult 
with satisfaction. I have introduced it into my seminary. 

From Jno. M. Keagy, M.D., 3Iember of the Eommining Committee of (he 
American Association for the Supply of Teachers. 
After an attentive examination of "Eschenburg's Manual of Classical Li 
terature," edited by Professor Fiske, I feel assured that its place cannot be 
supplied by any single work in our language. It f^rms the most systematic 
and extensive body of information on all the interesting points of inquiry 
connected with Grecian and Roman liiterature and Antiquities, that has 
6ome under my observation. It is comprehensive in its scope, and clear in 



C s^ ] 

its details, while the bibliographical notices, and references to other works, 
are copious, and form a highly valuable portion of the book. 

The value of the original edition has been enhanced by the labours of the 
editor, who has added much useful matter to the body of ihe work, and also 
to the bibliography and references. As a whole' it contains so mucli useful 
inforraation,"evidently collected with great resaareh, that it will only need 
to be examined, to be approved and adopted as a manual, by tlie classical 
scholar, the critic, or the general reader of history. It satisfies an unde- 
fined want that has long been felt by classical students in the common 
school aids to their studies, and which they can only fully realize and un- 
-derstand, after they examine this book. 

Fi-om C. H. Alden, A.M., Chairman of the Examining Committee of the 
American Association for the Supply of Teachers, and Principal of the 
Philadelphia Female High School. 

Sir .-—I have with care looked over a very valuable work, lately from 
your press, " Eschenburg's Manual of Classical Literature," and I close the 
volume with feelings which prompt me to state to you, in a few words, my 
oi)inion of its merits. Its title is sufficiently indicative of its contents, but 
without examination, no scholar would suppose that in about 650 pages are 
comprised full, but concise and able, treatises on the following subjects : — 
Archaeology of Greek a.nd Roman Literature and Arts, History of Greek 
and Roman Literature, Mythology of the Greeks and Romans, Greek and 
Roman Antiquities, and Classical Geography and Chronology. A glance at 
these subjects will show, that if sufficiently exact, this Manual will supply 
the place of some four or five volumes, whicli the diligent student finds it 
useful often to consult. The portion devoted to the view of the Classical 
Authors may seem too limited, and yet all that can be easily retained in 
memory, i. e. the most important facts, are given. In otlier respects I am 
not disposed to wish it enlarged by the addition of a single paragraph. The 
fact that this Manual has gone through seven or eight editions in Germany, 
a country, most of all, celebrated for classical attainments, is of itself no 
mean commendation of its excellence ; and it is somewhat singular that 
three or four eminent classical scholars, in distant parts of our country, 
were engaged in the translation of it at the same tim.e, unknown to each 
otlier : so general is the conviction of its utility among us. Though Profes- 
sor Fiske very modestly comes before the public as a translator of the work 
only, it will be found that many and very important additions and useful 
alterations are made. Besides what is necessary on the subject fo the value 
of Greek and Roman coins, there are interesting additions to the textof Es- 
chenburg respecting the remains of Athens and Rome, and a condensed view 
of the sacred writings, and the writings of the early Christians, as found in 
the Greek language. The whole of part five is also added. Professor Fiske 
deserves much from our scholars for this excellent epitome, and I have little 
doubt that he will be gratified by its extensive circulation arid use It is 
well adapted to our high schools and academies, as well as indisj>eiisable 
to the college student, unless, indeed, he would have the trouble to refer often 
to Adams, Lempriere, Urquhart, and others. In every public and private 
library it deserves a place, and will no doubt find one, when the work be 
comes" generally known. 

Very respectfully, CHARLES HENRY ALDEN 

EXTRACTS FROM LETTERS ADDRESSED TO THE TRANSLATOR. 

From Rev. Edward Robinsooi, late Professor Extraordinary at the Theolo- 
gical Seminary, Andover. 
I formerly had occasion to make considerable use of the original " Ma- 
nual" of Eschenburg; and ivave ever regarded it as the best work of the 
kind extant. It is the production of an elegant and philosophical mind, 
perfectly at home in its acquaintance with the subjects of which it treats. It 
was therefore with great pleasure that I learned your intention of trans- 
iatiog aad preparing the work for the benefit of American students ; not 

3 



[38] 



only because I had entire confidence that you would do it well, but also 
because you would thus in a good measure fill out what has hitherto been 
a blank in English literature. 

F\-07n his Excellency Edward Everett, formerly Professor of Greek Lite' 
rature in Harvard University. 
I am acquainted with the work in the original, and have always regarded 
it as one of the best of the class. I know of no volume which contains so 
mucli information, in every department of classical literature. I have, of 
course, had very little time, since I received your translation, to firm an 
opinion, by actual examination, of its merits; but as far as 1 liave looked 
into h, and after a cursory perusal of a few of the leading chapters, I feel 
warranted in saying tliat you have augmented considerably the value of the 
work. I regard your translation of it'as an important service rendered to 
the study of'classical literature. 

The follcvAng is from Mr. Solomon Stoddard, lately a Teacher in Yale 
College, and in the New Haven Gymnasium,, and one of the authors qfth& 
New Latin Grammar. 

Professor Fiske has rendered an important service to the cause of clas- 
sical learning, by his translation of the " Manual" of Eschenburg. The 
original woik contains a large amount of valuable matter in a comprehen- 
sive and convenient form ; and the additions of the translator are judicious 
and important. As a whole, it furnishes such a storeliouse of information 
to the classical student as is not otlierwise accessible to him, except in 
large and numerous volumes. I cordially recommend it to the attention 
and the study of teachers and scholars. 

The following is from a letter from Rev. Moses Stuart, Professor of Sacred 
Literature in the Theolog ical Seminary, Andover. 

As to the value of " Eschenburg," there can, I think, be but one opinion 
among competent judges. We surely have no work in English which will 
compare with it. I hope that it will "be introduced, and made a necessary 
part of apparatus, in every Latin and Greek school and in every college in 
our country. The additions which you have made in the notes, and in 
Part v., will surely be deemed an important part of the book, for American 
students. If minute investigators in Bibliography, Mythology, &c., should 
discover some errors in your book, you must not be disheartened, but rather 
encouraged to go on with your plan. In a work of such a nature, to avoid 
all error in the innmiierable facts and dates which are stated, is out of 
question. 

Fro7n the Boston Recorder. 

We have no hesitation in saying, this is the most comprehensive and 
valuable work of the kind which has appeared in the English language. 
Eschenburg was one of the most distinguished scholars of Germany. Six 
editions of his work were published before his death, (in 1820,) to each of 
which useful improvements were made under his own eye. A Frencli 
translator of the work remarks, "It is sufficient encomium on the book, that 
it has been adopted as the basis of public and private instruction in the 
major part of the universities and colleges in Germany." The present 
volume is divided into five parts : I. Archseology of Literature and Art ; 
XL History of Ancient Literature, Greek and Pioman; III. Mythology of the 
Greeks and Romans; IV. Greek and Roman Antiquities; V. Classical 
Geography and Chronology. The work is divided into sections of great 
convenience for reference. The intervals are occupied with notes, illus- 
trations, and references, by Professor Fiske. These are very numerous 
and valuable, as they render more complete the design of the work, and 
furnish a vast amount of important matter in a small compass. The notes 
and references do great honour to the translator, as an accomplished, judi- 
cious, and diligent scholar. 



i 



[39] 



FVom Professor Beck, Rutger's College, New Brunswick, N. J. 
" The Book of Science," by Mr. J. M. Moffat, which forma the basis of 
the present volumes, (Scientific Class Book,) has already become exten- 
sively and deser-sedly popular in England. Professor Johnson, the Ameri- 
can editor of these volumes, has greatly improved them by correcting many 
of the errors contained in the original works, and by the addition of many 
interesting notes, of a set of questions for examination, lists of works for 
reference,"&c.' They are very properly styled "A Familiar Introduction to 
the Principles of Physical Science." On each of the subjects treated of, 
there is an amount of information in these volumes which is seldom found 
in elementary treatises of this description; while this information is set 
forth in such a manner as peculiarly to engage tiie attention of tiie pupil. 
In their composition, the best authorities have been consulted, and " due 
acknowledgments have been made wherever they seemed to be required." 
These works are indeed what they purport to he— Scientific Class Books; 
and Professor Johnson deserves well of the friends of science for the labour 
which he has devoted to the preparing of them for the American public. 
If the friends of education are really in earnest in the business of improve- 
ment, these books will soon take the place of those incorrect and defective 
treatises on the various branches of physical science which most unfortu- 
nately are now so generally adopted. 

Refuge, near Mechanicsburg,Pa., June 15, 1836. 
Gentlennen : — I have examined your '• Scientific Class Book," Parts I. ami' 
II. As the result of my examination, I am happy to state that in these 
books I found a work well adapted to, and much wanted in cur schools. 
The editor, Professor Johnson, has evinced a sound judgment in the addi- 
tions made; and you, as publishers, have conferred a lasting favour upon 
the public in giving this judicious work circulation, and I trust it will be 
generally introduced in all our schools and families. I ca;n recommend it 
as one of the best works extant, on the physical sciences. I shall cordially 
use my influence to give the work an extended introduction into schools, 
lyceums, and families. 

J. D. RUPP, 
Agent far the Pa. Lyceum. 

The author of the "Sacred History of the Deluge," in a condensed form, 
exhibits extensive research, presents numerous facts interesting and in- 
structive, and clothes liis ideas in a style transparent, pure, and agreeable. 
The history, as a whole, deserves praise. The lively fancy, the copious 
information, and the cultivated judgment of its author, are conspicuous 
throughout. The devout Christian who reads it will assuredly feel his be- 
lief strengthened. 

JOHN M'INTYRE. 

Pine street, Philadelphia, April 11, 1836. 

From Charles Henry Alden, A.M., Chairman of Examining Committee of 

the American Association for the Supply of Teachers. 
Mr. Edwarb C. Biddle, — 

I have examined with great interest your "Etymological Dictionary," and 
I am convinced that its use will prove of immense iDenefit to pupils and 
students of every age. While its prominent design is to furnish a correct 
knowledge of our language, it will serve also as a most admirable appa- 
ratus for mental discipline. To the teacher who is not acquainted with the 
Latin and Gfeek languages, this work is invaluable; and even to the clas- 
sical scholar, the number of derivatives placed after tiie several roots, will 
suggest shades of signification invaluable to him who is desirous of express- 
ing his thoughts in definitive terms. 

Dr. Keagy's Introduction is such as a mind like his might be supposed to 
produce. Successfully devoted to elementary instruction for several years, 
and having given his attention very much to what may be called the phi- 
losophy of education, he has here put together a series of facts, and fronj 
them deduced principles of primary interest to all, especially to parents 
and teachers. The work ought to be adopted as a text book in our high 
fichools, and be possessed and daily used by our students in college 



[40] 

Prom the Rev. Solomon Peck,formerl>/ Professor of Latin and Hebrew in 
Amherst College, and late Professor of Classical Literature and Philo- 
logy in Brown University. 

Eschenburg's "Manual of Classical Literature," translated, with addi- 
tions, by Profoss-ir Fiske, will be found a truly valuable help in the study 
of the ancient classics. The original work has for many years enioyed dis- 
tinguished favour with German" scholars; and the English copy has been 
prepared with due regard to neatness and accura.cy. Tiie additions appear 
to have been made vvith good judgment, especially in the department of 
Greek literature. As an introduction to classical authors, I am acquainted 
with no work of equal merit. It is comprehensive in its plan; and its mate- 
rials are select, and judiciously arranged. 

From J. B. Walker, A.B., Teacher, Philadelphia. 
Gentlemen .-—Such a book as Oswald's " Etymological Dictionary of the 
English Language," has long been a desideratum. I am gratified to find 
that this excellent work, improved and rendered more practically useful 
by the labours of Dr. Keagy, has at length been given to the public. It is 
well fitted to exercise the' pupil's powers of discrimination and judgment, 
and to aid him in acquiring a thorough knowledge of the English language. 
It commends itself to the consideration and adoption of teachers. 

Auburn, Nov. 18, 1835. 
We, the undersigned, having examined the " Scientific Class Book," 
" Bridge's Algebra," and "Guy'^s Astronomy," prefer them to any others we 
have used inlhose branches of instruction, and shall accordingly use them 
as text books in our schools. 

OLIVER S. TAYLOR, 
E. L. WmSLOW. 

Mr. Edward C. Biddle,— 

Your little work " L'Abeille pour les Enfans," for its chaste and simple 
style, is entitled to the regard of all who are engaged in teaching that beau- 
tiful language (the French) to the young. 

With regard, yours, J. H. B. 

Prom Mr. H. Bill, Principal of Union Hall Seminary, Central -Churchy 
Philadeljihia. 

I have been much interested in the examination of the following books 
from your press, viz. "Scientific Class Book, part firpt and second," 
"Pinnock's History of England," of" Greece and Rome," " Guy's Astrono- 
my," " Bridge's Algebra," and " Sacred History." It is not enough to say- 
that I oive them a preference to other books, on the same subject, but I 
think them decidedly superior, in their arrangement and general features 
to any now in use. 

HENRY BILL. 

February 27th, 1836. 

Norfolk, Va., May 30, 1836. 
Mr. Edward C. Biddle,— 

Sir, — The receipt of several neat volumes as specimens of the very valu- 
able school books you have recently published, is hereby gratefully ac- 
knowledged. And from such an examiivation as pressing duties have per- 
mitted, I am fully convinced they need but to be known, to be appreciated 
and generally patronised. Especially do I recommend the interesting 
and comprehensive "Scientific Class Book," as admirably suited to the 
wants of senior pupils, who, in our higher schools, have finished Mrs. Mar- 
cet's improved " Conversations on Chemistry and Natural Philosophy." 
I shall introduce into my Select Classical School this standard " Scientific 
Class Book," with "Guy's Astronomy, and Keith on the Globes." 
Yours, very respectfully, 

JAftlES D. JOHNSON. 



[41 ] 



Frovi Samuel Jones, A.M , Member of the Examining Committee qf tha 
Ainerican Association/or the Supply of Teachers ; and Principal of Clas- 
sical and Mathematical Institute. 

The design of the American editor of Eschenburg's Manual, " is to exhibit, 
in a condensed but compreliensive summary, what is most essential in all 
' tlie prominent topics belonging to the department of Classical Literature and 
Antiquities," accompanied with "references to various sources of informa- 
tion to which the scholar may go when he wishes to pursue any of the sub- 
jects by further investigation."" This, in few words, is a correct description 
of this adniiral)le book, tra)islated from the German by Professor Fiske. It ia 
intended to give the enterprising student a chart of the extended and fertile 
region which he is going forward to explore, that he may be enabled to con- 
tinue his delightful labours with greater facility and better advantage. From 
a brief sketch of the history of this elaborate work, prefixed by the translator, 
it appears that it has been received with great favour by the most distinguished 
scholars of both Germany and France. Before the death of the author, 
which occurred in 1820, he was enabled to publish six successive editions 
of his IVlanual, iu which were amassed the constantly accumulating lite- 
rary treasures of a long and laborious life. Other editions have been 
issued since, under the supervision of competent scholars, who have made 
Buch changes as the advanced state of literature and the arts required. The 
additions of the American editor will be found to enhance the value of the 
work; and at the same time render it more useful as well as acceptable to 
the " scholars of our country," by whom a text-book of this description has 
been greatly needed. The "Parts" of the Manual published in a separate 
volume, of 340 pages, with the title of Classical Antiquities, and which, 
comprise such portions of it as are most essential to be used in our high 
echools and academies, will, I trust, be studied in all of them. 

S. JOI^S, 
No. 17, South Seventh street, Philad. 

Prom Silvester Dana, Esq., A.B., Principal qf Wilksbarre Academy. 

t have recently examined Pinnock's edition of Goldsmith's Histories of 
Greece, Rome, and England, and am favourably impressed with their merits. 
The works in their original form have been long before the public, and are 
too well known to need commendation. It is sufficient to say that the improve- 
ments of Mr. Piiinock are highly valuable, particularly in adapting them to 
the use of schools. 

With the little volume entitled " Outlines of Sacred History," I am much 
pleased. It is a valualile epitome, containing much important and interesting 
matter, with which our youth should be familiar, but of which many are now 
deplorably ignorant. It deserves a place in every family and school in our 
country. 

The "History of the Deluge" is a work calculated to interest and profit 
that class of readers for whom it was intended. 

I have examined with some care " Bridge's Algebra," and consider it as 
well adapted as any with which I am acquainted to advance the pupil in 
that useful science. 

The "New American Speaker," and "L'Abeille pour les Enfans," will, I 
have no doubt, be approved wherever they are known. . 

From an examination of the First and Secojid Parrs of "The Scientific 
Class-! joolc," I have no hesitation in saying that it justly merits the high com- 
mendations it has received. I regard it,' both on account of the valuable 
matter which it contains and the interesting m.anner in which it is commu- 
nicated, as a v/ork well adapted to schools' and academies.- It will also, I 
doubt not, be found a useful companion to the man of business, as it contains, 
in a small compass and portable form, an amount of information not to be 
lound in any other single work. 

" Guy's Astronomy and Keith on the Globes" is a valuable work, and needs 
only to be known to be generally approved. 

Wilksbarre, Pa., Sept. 183G. 

3* 



[42] 



FVom C. H. Anthony, Esq., City Surveyor (Troy, N. Y.) and Lecturer mt 

the Natural and Experimental Sciences. 
As a teacher of the Natural and Experimental Sciences, I have often felt 
the need of some works in all respects adapted to the present slate of science 
in til is country. My beau ideal oi syxzh a work is fully realized in "The 
Scientific Class-book, Paris First and Second ;" and I have lost no time ia 
jniroducing them into my school. Part First is excellent; but Part Second I 
consider as the best text-book in general science ever published in the Eng- 
lish language. 

From Sam,uel Jones, A.M., of Philadelphia. 

I have already given the First Part of " The Scientific Class-book" my 
approval ; and now, after having tested the utility of the Second Part, lam 
fully prepared to endorse the favourable opinion expressed by others of its 
value. 

The " Etymological Dictionary" of Oswald, edited by Dr. John M. Keagy, 
is an elaborate work, from which every teacher of sufficient intelligence to 
appreciate its excellencies can derive much valuable information. 



Columbia Academy, Philad. Nov. 15, ^836. 
Mr. Edward C. Biddle, 

Dear Sir,—\ am so well pleased with "Frost's History of the United 
Stales," and its merits as a school book, that I have organized a class who 
are now engaged in studying it. 

Fi.espectfully yours, &c. 

J. H. BROWN. 



We fully concur In the above. 
JOHN COLLINS, 
MATTHIAS NUGENT, 
RICHARD O'R. LOVETT, 
S. H. REEVES, 
JAMES CROWELL, 
THOMAS COLLINS, 
R. M'CUNNEY, 
THOMAS H. WILSON, 
DAVID SMITH, 
BAtiTRAM KAIGHN. 
CYRUS KING FROST, 
M. SEMPLE, 
B. W. BLACKWOOD, 
WILLIAM M'NAIR, 
E. W. HUBBARD, 
WILLIAM LEWIS, 
E. NEVILLE, 
JOHN ALLEN, 
WILLIAM MANN, 
JAMES E. SLACK, 
L. W. BURNETT, 
CH.\RLES MEAD, 
THOMAS M. ADAM, 
WILLIAM ALEXANDER, A.M. 
JOSEPH RAPP, No. 41 Sansom 

street. 
JOHN PURLZ, 



AUGUSTINE I-UDINGTON, 
SAMUEL CLENDENIfSr, 
ARCHIBALD MITCHELL, 
THOMAS T. AZPELL, 
T. G. POTTS, 
J. B. WALKER, 

H. LONGSTRETH, A.M., Classical 
Teacher, Friends' Academy. 

D. R. ASHTON, 

WILLIAM MARRIOTT, Principal 
of Pliiladelphia Select Academy, 
corner of Fifth and Arch streets. 

RIAL LAIvE, 

E. FOUSE, N. E. corner of Race and 
Sixth streets. 

WILLIAM A. GARRIGUES, Mathe- 
matical Teacher. 

J. J. HITCHCOCK, 

THOMAS BALDWIN, 

T. SKVERN, 

JOHN SIMMONS, 

JOHN EVANS, 

JOHN STOCKDALE, 

Rev. SAML. W. CRAWFORD, A.M. 
Principal of the Academical Dept. 
of the University of Pennsylvania. 



Mr. E. C. Biddle, 

Your " Frost's United States" is, in my judgment, by far the best 
school book in this department of history that we have. The lucid order 
and attractive style of Bancroft, evident in the former part of the work, and 



[43] 



the care and research shown by references to numerous authors, are satisfac- 
tory proofs of its excellence ; at the same time that the convenient size of 
the volume and its attractive "getting up,'' bespeak favour at first sight. It 
ought 10 supersede, in respect to more advanced pupils, any other lext-book 
extant on this subject. I can only wisli that it may be placed w iiiiin ihe 
reach of those for whom it is intended, inasmuch as the work needs to be 
known merely, in order to be generally adopted. 

CHARLES HENilY ALDEN. 

Mr. Biddle, 

Dear Sir,— I am glad to see that the " History of the United States," wliich 
you announced some time since, has made its appearance. The extensive 
research which has of laie years been carried on upon the subject of American 
history, and the careful investigation of original sources of intelligence, by 
individuals eminently qualified for the task, have furnished valuable -mate- 
rials from which to enlarge and to correct ihe historical records of our coun- 
try. It was lime to have these advantages transferred to works designed for 
the purpose of education. I was happy, therefore, to observe by your an- 
nouncement, that a book on this plan was to be preparexl. I have since been 
gratified with the perusal of the volume ; and I take pleasure in saying that 
It, appears to me in every respect well executed. It avoids the fault wiih 
which most compilaiions are chargeable— that of merely sketching a general 
outline of events, too brief and aljstract to gain the atteniion of the siudent. 
It is free, at ihe same time, from ijijudicious prolixity and detail. 

The style is clear, concise, and spirited ; free on the one hand fi-om the 
ambitious and rhetorical character, and on the other, from the negligence and 
inaccuracy into whicii most of our popular compends have fallen. 

As a history of the United Slates, it is, in my opinion, more full and more 
exact than any of the same size, and in all other respects preferable, as a 
book intended to aid the business of instruction. 

WILLIAM RUSSELL, 
Editor of ihe American Juunial of Eduudion^fimt seriet, 

Philadelphia, Oct. 1836. 

New York, January 11, 1837. 
We fully concur in the sentiments above expressed. 
G. J. HOPPER, JOSEPH CHAMBERLAIN, 

RUFUS LOCKWOOD, • MYRON BEAKDSLEY, 
ROYAL MANN, WILLIAM H. VVYCKOFF, 

JOHN OAKLEY, THEODORE W. PORTER, 

HENRY SWORDS, C. C. JENNINGS, 

GEORGE INGRAM, ROBERT J. FURNEY, 

JOHN C. TREADWELL, AARON RAND, 

JOSEPH M'KEEN, EDMUND D. BARRY, D.D., Princi- 

F. S. WORTH, cipal of a Classical Academy. 

WILLIAM FORREST, SAMUEL GARDNER, 

F. A. STREETER, D. STEVENS, 

JAMES LAWSON, SAMUEL BROWN, 

DAVID SCHOYER, JOSEPH M'ELY, 

SOLOMON JEN'NER, P. PIRINE, 

C. WM. NICHOLS, SAMUEL RICHARDS. 

Mr. Edward C. Biddle : 

Dear Sir,— Youv agent has kmdly placed in my hands, at diiTerenl times, 
four or five popular scliool books, namely. The First Part of the " Scieniific 
Class-book," "Keith on the Globes." "Pinnock's Goldsmith's Rome" and 
"England," and " Frost's History of the United States." I have read these 
works carefully, and think they are well adapted to our schools. I may add, 
Iheir merits have alone induced me tn introduce ihem into niy school. 
Yours respectfully, 

JOSEPH IVlOONEY, Teacher. 

New York, Jan. 7, 1837. 



%. 



[44] 



GEOGRAPHY OF PENNSYLVANIA, 

BY REBECCA EATON. 



RECOMMENDATIONS. 

JVoOT Rev. Dr. M^Conaughy, President of Washington College, Penn. 

I have read a porlionof the proof sheets of a " Geography of Pennsylvania," 
Dy Miss R. Eaton, and am much pleased with its 'details. They are, in so 
far as I know, accurate. The historical and statistical facts 'are of general, 
and not a few of them, of thrilling interest. The description of the country, 
given as the result of personal observation, evinces close and discriminating 
attention. The manner in which the subject is presented is very interesting. 
It is well adapted to convey much useful information to youth, and will be 
read with pleasi re and interest by all. 

January 5, 1837. 

Froni Rev. Mr. Elliot, Professor in the Western Theological Seminary, 
Pittsburg. 
Miss Eaton,— 

That portion of the proof sheets of your "Geography of Tennsylvania," 
which you were pleased to forward me, I have examined with as much care 
as my engagements would permit. The statements appear to be correct and 
well arranged. If the other portions of the work be executed with the same 
fidelity and judgment, I shall consider it a valuable and acceptable jiresent 
to our juvenile population, and well deserving the patronage of the friends 
of education throughout our commonwealth. , 

January 9, 1837. 

From Rev. Charles Henry Alien, Principal of the Philadelphia High School 

for Young Ladies. 
^ Miss Eaton's " Geography of Pennsylvania" I have examined, and think 
it well adapted to the" use of schools. It would be well if introduced into our 

?ublic schools and others, both as a reading book and a book for recitation, 
'he author deserves well of the friends of ed ucation in this state, particularly; 
and a general introduction of her work into our schools would be expressive* 
of but a suitable return for the labour expended in the publication of her 
useflil book. 
January 20, 1837. 

I fully concur in the opinion of the " Geography of Pennsylvania," as 
expressed above. SAMUEL W. BLACK. , 

From Mr. N. Dodge, Principal of Harmony Hall Female Se7ninary. 

Having examined with some care the " Geography of Pennsylvania," by 
Miss Eaton, I find it. so far as my knowledge of the state extends, correctly 
and happily executed; and therefore feel a pleasure in recommending it to 
the attention of parents, as an indispensable family book in Pennsylvania ; 
to teachers, as the only text-book on the subject^ suitable for use in our 
schools ; and to all, in short, who take an interest in the cause of education 
in Pennsylvania. 

January 23, 1837. 

From Mr. W. G. E. Agneic, Teacher of a Private Academy. 
To the Rev. E. S. Jones : 

Dear /SV?-,— Having, at your request, examined the " Geography of the State 
of Pennsylvania," by Miss Eaton, I am of opinion that it furnishes informa- 
tion which I have not met with elsewhere, and exhibits a depth of research 
that I was not prepared to find. Indaad, scunuch pl«^eiAm I with it, tliat 



B, Indaad, scunuch pl«^eiAm I with it, 
115 89 



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